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
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- Ages
- 7–12
- School years
- 2nd Grade–6th Grade
- 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
- 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 practices 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 Grade, with suffix spelling rules developed through Grades 3–6.
Which level should my child play?
| School year | Suggested level |
|---|---|
| 2nd Grade | Prefixes |
| 3rd Grade | Suffixes |
| 4th Grade | Meanings |
| 5th Grade | Build a word |
| 6th Grade | 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.
🖨️ Printable worksheets
Practice away from the screen too: free worksheets with answer keys that match this game.
🎯 Practice one skill
Jump straight to a level, with tricks, examples and a printable worksheet for each skill.
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 spelled 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.
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Help your child shine in English
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