Prefix sub-: Definition, Activity, Words, & More

As with Phonics First®, in Structures®, we teach several prefixes and suffixes. In Phonics First®, we focus more on reading and spelling with the affixes, but in Structures®, we also focus on the meaning of the affixes. For example, the prefix "sub-" is taught in both curriculums. In Structures®, we delve deeper into the meaning of "sub-”, which means under.

What Does the Prefix "sub-" Mean?

The prefix "sub-" originates from Latin and means "under" or "below." It is commonly used in English to form words that denote a position beneath something, a lesser status, or a subordinate relationship.

For instance, in words like submarine and subway, the prefix indicates a position below the surface. In other cases, such as subordinate or subpar, it implies something that is lesser in rank or quality.

Importance in Reading & Spelling

Understanding the prefix "sub-" plays a crucial role in reading comprehension and spelling. By recognizing "sub-" at the beginning of a word, students can decode its meaning even if the word is unfamiliar. Incorporating "sub-" practice into reading activities enhances students' ability to break down multisyllabic words.

Multisensory Activity for Prefix "sub-"

To help students remember that "sub" means under, use the Key Word "submarine.” While students are working on their multisensory activity, play the famous Beatles' song "Yellow Submarine.”

"We all live in a yellow submarine

Yellow submarine, yellow submarine

We all live in a yellow submarine

Yellow submarine, yellow submarine"

Materials You Will Need

• Blue construction paper
• Yellow crayon, colored pencil, or marker
• Photocopy of a submarine (obtained through a quick internet search)
• Scissors
• Wooden craft stick
• Tape or glue

Activity Directions

1. To begin, have the students color their submarine yellow and then cut it out (to save time, cut the submarine out before starting the lesson).
2. Using tape or glue, attach the craft stick to the back of the submarine.
3. Next, cut the top of the blue construction paper to look like waves.
4. Cut a vertical line towards the edge of the paper.
5. Cut the slit on the same side of the paper as the student's dominant hand. Placing the slit on the same side as their dominant hand allows students to hold the craft stick in their dominant hand. The vertical slit allows for the craft stick to move back and forth to mimic a submarine moving back and forth below the water line or waves.
6. Finally, slide the craft stick attached to the submarine through the construction paper slit. Students can use the wooden craft stick to maneuver the submarine while it remains under water.

Word List for Practice

Use the following prefix “sub-” words for additional practice and activities:

1. Submarine
2. Subway
3. Submerge
4. Subtract
5. Substitute
6. Substandard
7. Subset
8. Subcategory
9. Subatomic

Written by,

Tammi Brandon, M.Ed., CDP

Tammi Brandon is a Master Instructor and Education Consultant with Brainspring Educator Academy.

Bring Brainspring Orton-Gillingham multisensory instruction to your classrooms, transforming struggling K-12 readers into skilled learners through our effective, evidence-based approach.

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