4th Grade Prefixes Un-, Re-, and Dis- worksheets

About this worksheet

Prefixes un-, re-, and dis- change a base word's meaning before the word even reaches the main spelling pattern matters in fourth grade because spelling work now connects word meaning, word parts, and editing accuracy. Fourth graders may know the base word but choose the wrong prefix because un- and dis- can both mean not, while re- means again. This worksheet keeps the focus on one spelling pattern at a time, and every wrong choice is a mistake a real speller might make, so children cannot get credit by ruling out silly answers. Students choose the prefix that gives a meaning, build prefixed words from base words, tell a real prefix from look-alike letters, and use prefixed words in sentences.

Support versions use more familiar words and fewer choices. Standard versions add harder words, and challenge versions add longer words and the cases where the pattern does not apply. Ask your child to say the word, mark the meaningful part or spelling change, and then check whether the written form still matches the meaning. That process is slower than guessing, but it builds spelling habits that transfer to real writing.

What your child will learn

• Use un- to mean not or reverse
• Use re- to mean again
• Use dis- to mean not or opposite
• Keep the base word visible after adding a prefix

Common Core standard: L.4.4.B