Choose 10 to 15 basic root words and use these in a few activities. Once the students know these words, choose another 10 to 15 words to work with.
Divide the class into pairs or groups of three. If you are teaching just one or two people you can participate as a player.
Give each group of players a set of index cards, each with a root word written on it. Show students how the game works by playing against a student.
Turn the cards face down on the table, spaced out evenly so each card can be turned over to reveal the word.
Turn over two cards when it is your turn. If the cards match and are the same root word, give the definition of the root word and a sentence using the root word. If you can't remember the definition or can't make an effective sentence you lose the match and the next player gets the chance to turn over two cards.
Win the game when you have the most root-word card matches.
Play alternate root-word memory games by writing the root word on one card and the definition on the other. Make the match when you pick the root word and the correct definition.
Visit one of the crossword or word-search websites that allow you to make your own word puzzles (See Resources.)
Enter the list of 10 to 15 root words you are practicing and teaching.
Click "Create Crossword Puzzle" or " Create Word Search." Wait for the puzzle to be created, print it and make copies for students.
Ask students to find the words or to write the definitions of the root words in the crossword puzzle. Have students work in pairs to make it more fun.