Word Roots

Description

When one starts studying vocabulary they realize how words relate to one another and how learning a prefix or suffix can help them decode the meaning of a totally new word. Word Roots is based on this premise: to efficiently and effectively learn vocabulary (and aid spelling as well as reading comprehension) learn the different elements - roots, prefixes, suffixes. Word Roots covers both Greek and Latin roots; these being the foundation of much of our English language.

Each Word Roots lesson covers one or more root words plus several prefixes and suffixes; giving definitions of each. The student then works through a list of derivatives (words derived from the root word) matching definitions with the words. Then the new words are used in sentences; the student deciding what is the best word choice for each sentence. Previous editions of this program stopped at this point but the newest edition provides a number of extra reinforcement exercises: defining word parts, writing sentences and an optional creative writing suggestion. Reviews after every two lessons provide several different activities that match words from both lessons to their definitions as well as a sentence completion activity. A pre-test and a post-test help to evaluate how much the student knows going into the course and how much progress they made as they finish. Each book also includes a complete answer key plus a dictionary of Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes. The workbooks are reproducible for one classroom or homeschool.

Flashcards (3.25" x 5.25") have a prefix, root, or suffix on the front and definitions on the back. The set includes instructions for quick, fun activities. A helpful supplement to the Word Roots workbooks or other roots-based programs or they can also be used as an independent teaching tool. Card sets correspond to the word list for each level.

Compared to the previous edition, the roots, prefixes, and suffixes are largely the same in corresponding books; A1 to Book 1, A2 to Book 2. However, there are more derivatives (vocabulary words) and activities for each list in the new edition. There is no indication that Critical Thinking Co. will be updating the software, but the impression I got is that the increased activities in the books now correlates better with the software, which used to have more activities than the book. 225 - 250 pgs, pb. ~ Janice

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.