Transcript Prefix/Suffix Spelling Rules

Prefix/Suffix Spelling Rules
Prefix Spelling Rules
• The spelling of the base word never changes.
– Example: un + happy = unhappy
• The spelling of the prefix never changes.
– Example: polygon, polygraph, polyester
• Be aware that double letters can occur.
– Example: un + natural = unnatural
• Watch out for prefix look-alikes.
– Example: re is not a prefix in real or reach. Just as
un in not a prefix in uncle.
Suffix Spelling Rules
• Usually, the spelling of both the suffix and root
word stay the same.
– Example: care + ful = careful
• For one syllable words ending in a single
consonant, you double the last letter before
adding the suffix.
– Example: run + ing = running; sun +y = sunny
– If it ends in more than one consonant, you do not
double the last letter.
– Example: pump + ed = pumped; sing + ing=singing
More Suffix Spelling Rules
• Fore more than one syllable words that end in l,
you double the l before adding the suffix.
– Example: tavel + ing = traveling;
= cancelled
cancel + ed
• When the word ends in “y” you change it to “I”.
– Example: happy + ness = happiness;
– The exception is if there is a “I” at the beginning of the
suffix you are adding. For example: copy _ ing =
copying as “ing” already begins with an “I” you do not
want to repeat the “I”