English Language Arts
Grade 6
15 min
Words with re-
Words with re-
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify the prefix 're-' in various words.
Determine the primary meanings of 're-' as 'again' or 'back'.
Infer the meaning of unfamiliar words containing 're-' by analyzing their base words.
Use words with 're-' correctly in sentences to convey precise meaning.
Explain how understanding prefixes like 're-' enhances vocabulary and reading comprehension.
Apply knowledge of 're-' words to analyze an author's purpose in a text.
Have you ever had to *redo* your homework, or *return* a library book? 🤔 What do those words have in common?
In this lesson, you'll discover the power of the prefix 're-'. Understanding 're-' will help you unlock the meaning...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
PrefixA word part added to the beginning of a base word to change its meaning.In 'unhappy,' 'un-' is the prefix.
Base Word (or Root Word)The main part of a word that carries its primary meaning and to which prefixes and suffixes can be added.In 'rewrite,' 'write' is the base word.
Prefix 're-'A common prefix that primarily means 'again' or 'back'.In 'rebuild,' 're-' means to build again. In 'return,' 're-' means to turn back.
ReconstructTo build or form something again, often from parts or information.Scientists worked to reconstruct the dinosaur skeleton from the fossilized bones.
ReiterateTo say something again or repeat it, often for emphasis or clarity.Th...
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Key Rules & Conventions
Meaning of 're-'
The prefix 're-' generally carries the meaning of 'again' or 'back'.
This rule helps you understand the core meaning of words like 'redo' (do again) or 'return' (turn back).
Combining 're-' with a Base Word
When 're-' is added to a base word, it modifies the action or state of that base word to imply repetition or reversal.
This rule explains how 're-' changes the meaning. For example, 'read' becomes 'reread' (read again), and 'call' becomes 'recall' (call back to memory).
Spelling Convention for 're-'
The prefix 're-' is usually attached directly to the base word without a hyphen.
Most words with '...
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Challenging
Read the following excerpt from an argumentative essay: 'Opponents of the new recycling program claim it is too expensive. However, this argument fails to reconsider the long-term costs of landfill expansion. We must re-examine our priorities. This rebuttal shows that the initial cost is a worthwhile investment.' How does the author's use of 'reconsider', 're-examine', and 'rebuttal' contribute to their purpose?
A.They create a persuasive call to action, urging the reader to look again at the issue from a new, more thoughtful perspective and to reject the opposing view.
B.They show that the author is confused and keeps repeating the same ideas without making a clear point.
C.They are used to fill space in the essay because the author does not have enough evidence to support their claim.
D.They suggest that the author is arguing against their own points and will likely change their mind.
Challenging
Which of the following sentences uses a 're-' word illogically or incorrectly?
A.After the computer crashed, I had to re-enter all of my data.
B.The historian's new book forces us to re-evaluate the causes of the war.
C.She tried to retract her statement, but the reporter had already published it.
D.Because he was late, he had to re-arrive at the movie theater.
Challenging
A student is writing a rebuttal to the claim that 'homework is unnecessary'. Which sentence most effectively uses a 're-' word to challenge this claim?
A.I will now repeat the claim that homework is unnecessary.
B.We should review the claim that homework is unnecessary.
C.This viewpoint forces us to redefine the very purpose of at-home learning, which is to reinforce classroom concepts.
D.Let's remake the argument that homework is unnecessary.
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