Grade 9 ELA: Exploring Root Words

Grade 9 ELA: Exploring Root Words

Read each section carefully and answer all questions to the best of your ability. This worksheet will help you understand the meaning and usage of common root words.

Understanding root words is a powerful tool for expanding your vocabulary. A root word is the basic part of a word that carries the primary meaning. By recognizing common roots, you can often deduce the meaning of unfamiliar words, even without a dictionary.

For example, the root 'ject' means 'to throw'. Knowing this, you can understand words like 'project' (to throw forward), 'reject' (to throw back), and 'inject' (to throw in).

1. What is the most likely meaning of a word containing the root 'bene'?

2. The root 'bio' means 'life'. Which of the following words does NOT relate to life?

Complete each sentence by filling in the blank with a word that uses the given root word.

1. Root: 'aud' (to hear) - The audience gave the band a standing   after their performance.

2. Root: 'vis' (to see) - The scientist used a powerful microscope to   the tiny cells.

3. Root: 'port' (to carry) - Please   your luggage to the designated area.

4. Root: 'scrib' (to write) - The ancient monks would   manuscripts by hand.

Match each root word on the left with its correct meaning on the right.

1. The root 'chron' means 'time'. Explain how this meaning is evident in the words 'chronological' and 'anachronism'.

2. Consider the word 'malnourished'. The root 'mal' means 'bad' or 'evil'. How does this root contribute to the word's overall meaning?

Use the words from the word bank to complete the sentences below. Each word contains a root word you have studied.

1. The sudden   of the water pipe caused a flood in the basement.

2. Her   sense was so keen she could hear a pin drop from across the room.

3. The organization is known for its   acts, always helping those in need.

4. The mountainous   made the hike very challenging.