Morphology Before Memorisation
Use meaningful word parts to interpret and construct related subject terms before memorising isolated spellings.
Worked model: Morphology Before Memorisation
View the illustrated activity card
- 1Use meaningful word parts to interpret and construct related subject terms before memorising isolated spellings
- 2Connect each part to a change in meaning or word function
- 3Test related forms in subject sentences
- 4Use the appropriate form in a new sentence and explain the choice
Predict is a verb; prediction is a noun. “We predict a rise” and “Our prediction was supported” have related meanings but different sentence structures.
Teach the move
Prepare · 5 minutes
Select a useful root and related forms in real sentences.
- 1
Use meaningful word parts to interpret and construct related subject terms before memorising isolated spellings.
- 2
Connect each part to a change in meaning or word function.
- 3
Test related forms in subject sentences.
- 4
Use the appropriate form in a new sentence and explain the choice.
EAL upgrade
Remove the word-family chart and retain only the root as a reminder.
Keep the subject challenge. Offer one model, visual or language prompt where needed, then check a fresh independent response.
Try it tomorrow
Select a useful root and related forms in real sentences.
Use meaningful word parts to interpret and construct related subject terms before memorising isolated spellings. Connect each part to a change in meaning or word function.
Ask learners to repair “We prediction a rise” and explain why the form changes.
Remove the word-family chart and retain only the root as a reminder.
What to look for
Ask learners to repair “We prediction a rise” and explain why the form changes.
Teacher language
Adapt these prompts to the task and your learners.
Our purpose is: Use meaningful word parts to interpret and construct related subject terms before memorising isolated spellings.
Show the relationship and explain the choice you made.
Try the new case on your own. Show the detail or reasoning that supports your answer.
Which support do you still need, and which part can you now do independently?
Across subjects
Science: react, reaction, reactive. Humanities: migrate, migration, migrant; discuss meaning as well as form.
Adjust language support
Use a small word bank, visuals and partner rehearsal when needed. Extend with precise explanations and qualifications. Judge the support from the response to this task.