Prefixes and Suffixes Game for Kids: Prefixes & Suffixes
Prefixes & Suffixes is a free word-building game where kids add word parts to the start or end of a root word, learn what each part means, and spell the new word correctly.
Prefixes & Suffixes
Loading game…
- Ages
- 7–12
- School years
- 2nd Class–6th Class
- Skills
- Using the prefixes un-, dis-, re-, pre-, mis-, im-, in-, non-, sub- and over-, Using the suffixes -ful, -less, -ness, -ment, -ly, -er, -est and -able, Working out the meaning of a new word from its parts
- Curriculum
- Primary Curriculum
- Time
- 2–5 minutes a round
- Cost
- Free, no sign-up
- Updated
How to play Prefixes & Suffixes
- Choose a level: prefixes, suffixes, meanings, or build a word.
- Read the clue. It tells you what the new word should mean.
- Choose the prefix, suffix, meaning or spelling that fits.
- If you get one wrong, read the tip, then look out for the same rule next time.
What your child learns
- Using the prefixes un-, dis-, re-, pre-, mis-, im-, in-, non-, sub- and over-
- Using the suffixes -ful, -less, -ness, -ment, -ly, -er, -est and -able
- Working out the meaning of a new word from its parts
- Changing y to i before a suffix (happy → happiness)
- Doubling the last consonant (run → running) and dropping the final e (make → making)
- Keeping both letters when a prefix is added (un + necessary → unnecessary)
About Prefixes & Suffixes
A prefix is a word part added to the start of a root word, and a suffix is added to the end. Each one changes the meaning in a predictable way: un- and dis- usually mean not, re- means again, -less means without and -ful means full of. Once children know a handful of these, they can work out the meaning of hundreds of new words they meet in books.
The build a word level practises the spelling rules that trip children up: change y to i (happy + ly = happily), double the last letter after a short vowel (hop + ing = hopping, not hoping), drop the final e (write + ing = writing) and keep every letter when adding a prefix (dis + appear = disappear). Prefixes are often introduced in 2nd Class, with suffix spelling rules developed through Classes 3–6.
Which level should my child play?
| School year | Suggested level |
|---|---|
| 2nd Class | Prefixes |
| 3rd Class | Suffixes |
| 4th Class | Meanings |
| 5th Class | Build a word |
| 6th Class | Build a word |
Move up a level after getting three stars two or three times in a row.
🏆 Leaderboard
Full leaderboard →Play a round to get on the board! Create a free account to save your scores.
🇮🇪 Primary Curriculum links
Find games by class →- 2nd Class · Stage 2 · Reading: Phonics, word recognition and word study: Reading words with the magic e (split digraph) pattern, prefixes and familiar word parts.
- 3rd Class · Stage 3 · Writing: Spelling trickier words and understanding how suffixes change words.
- 5th Class · Stage 4 · Writing: Spelling challenging words and building words from roots, prefixes and suffixes.
Strands and strand units summarised from the Primary Mathematics Curriculum (2023) and the Primary Language Curriculum, published by the NCCA for the Department of Education (curriculumonline.ie). Both curricula set learning outcomes for two-year stages, so the class shown is our suggested starting point. Game alignment by Success Tutoring; not endorsed by the NCCA or the Department of Education.
🖨️ Printable worksheets
Practise away from the screen too: free worksheets with answer keys that match this game.
🎯 Practise one skill
Jump straight to a level, with tricks, examples and a printable worksheet for each skill.
📝 Use it for test prep
Prefixes & Suffixes builds skills for these tests. Try the ⏱️ Timed test button for exam-style practice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a prefix and a suffix?
A prefix goes at the start of a word (un + happy = unhappy) and a suffix goes at the end (hope + ful = hopeful). Both change the meaning of the root word.
Why is it "hopeful" and not "hopefull"?
The suffix -ful is always spelt with one l, even though the word full has two. The same goes for beautiful, useful and careful.
What age is this game for?
It suits children aged about 7 to 12. Younger children can start with prefixes, while older children can tackle the spelling rules in build a word.
More games you’ll love
All english games →Look, cover and spell words from memory.
Unscramble letters using picture clues.
Listen and find Dolch sight words.
Find the word that rhymes.
Add numbers within 10, 20, 100 or 1,000.
Practise any times table from 2× to 12×.
Help your child shine in English
Practice at home is a great start. Success Tutoring offers personalised tutoring to build skills and confidence.