Welcome to next blog post in our series about teaching word parts! Today, I have gathered my favorite mentor texts for teaching prefixes, suffixes, and root words. One of the most effective ways of introducing and reinforcing these concepts is through the use of mentor texts that provide clear examples of prefixes, suffixes, and root words in action.
By utilizing mentor texts, students can see firsthand how these word parts can be used to deepen their understanding of language and reading comprehension. From classic children’s books to contemporary works, there are countless mentor texts that can be used to teach these concepts in a fun and engaging way.
In this blog post, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite mentor texts for teaching prefixes, suffixes, and root words, along with tips and strategies for incorporating them into your teaching practice. Whether you’re a language arts teacher, a reading specialist, or just interested in expanding your knowledge of language, this post is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration.
So get ready to explore the exciting world of mentor texts and see the power of prefixes, suffixes, and root words come to life!
Mentor Texts for Prefixes & Suffixes
Firstly, you are going to want to have a separation of word parts as you introduce them. Students will benefit from isolated focus until they’ve reached a level of mastery that allows interaction with all of the word parts. So, I would begin with prefix books and activities. Then, move on to suffixes.
My 4 Favorite Prefix & Suffix Books Are:
- If You Were a Prefix by: Marcie Aboff
- Pre- and Re-, Mis- and Dis-: What Is a Prefix? by: Brian P. Cleary
- If You Were a Suffix by: Marcie Aboff
- -Ful and -Less, -Er and -Ness: What Is a Suffix? by: Brian P. Cleary
These two book “sets” come from language focused book collections. You will see a lot of Marcie Aboff and Brian P. Cleary books in Elementary Nest lessons and activities. They provide clear and direct definitions and examples. They are great for engagement, too! Students will love coming back to these books in their independent and partner reading time. And, you will love using them as examples in your Word Parts lessons!
Mentor Texts for Greek & Latin Roots
Greek and Latin root words can be found everywhere! But, I have found that these two book sets are accessible and provide excellent examples of Greek and Latin that are in our everyday language.
My Favorite Greek and Latin Root Word Books Are:
- Lollipops & Latin Roots Book 1 by: Marilyn Harkrider
- Lollipops & Latin Roots Book 2 by: Marilyn Harkrider
- Lingo Dingo and the Greek Astronaut by: Mark Pallis
- Lingo Dingo and the Greek Chef by: Mark Pallis
- The Fabulous Lost and Found and the Little Greek Mouse by: Mark Pallis
Both book sets are for learning Greek and Latin words. However, I believe they work perfectly for word part study. Students will love hearing that these Greek and Latin words can be heard in parts in our language, too!
Thank you so much for coming back and reading about my mentor text recommendations! Check back in for the next post on Assessments & Activities for Word Parts! Until then, happy teaching!
Resources That Are Ready to Go!
If you’re in search of resources that are ready to go, I have RF and L units with everything you need. From assessments to lesson plans, centers, and graphic organizers. Take a look at the standards you need teach below:
These RF units are complete and will help you teach prefixes, suffixes, and root words. Your students will be able to master the word attack and decoding skills they need to improve their reading fluency and accuracy.
Here are the Language units with a focus on Word Parts! These lessons and activities will offer opportunities for your students to improve their vocabulary skills and overall comprehension.
