Use the Prefixes Sub- and Inter-

In this activity, we’re going to be looking at prefixes.

 

Prefixes

Prefixes are groups of letters added in front of a root word to make a new word.

Most of the time, we can add a prefix to a root word without changing the spelling of the word.

 

For example:

Sub + marine = submarine

Inter + connected = interconnected

 

If we know the meanings of prefixes, it will help us to understand the meaning of words.

 

The Prefix Sub-

The prefix sub- means below or under.

 

This helps us to understand the meaning of words like submarine.

 

 

Sub means under and the root word marine means sea so a submarine travels under the sea.

 

Can you think of any other words with the prefix sub-?

 

We have:

Sub + standard = substandard

Sub + way = subway

 

If something is substandard, it is below standard (not good enough).

A subway is a tunnel below a road where pedestrians can travel.

 

The Prefix -Inter

What does the prefix inter tell us in the word interconnected?

 

The prefix inter- means between or amongst.

Interconnected means things that are connected with each other.

 

Here are some other words beginning with the prefix inter-

 

Inter + act = interact

Inter + national = international

 

 

If something is international, it is happening between different countries.

If two things are interacting, they are having an effect on each other.

 

In this activity, you’ll be focusing on the prefixes inter- and sub-.