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 so children do not get credit by eliminating unrelated words. Students match prefixes to meanings, build prefixed words from base words, choose spellings from sentence clues, and explain how the prefix changes the word. The items rotate across choosing the correct spelling, identifying the word part or pattern, using a meaning clue, and explaining the spelling rule. Support versions provide more visible letters and fewer choices. Standard and challenge versions ask for closer comparisons and more independent recall. 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
Worked example
Reread means read again because re- means again and the base word is read.
Common mistake
Choosing un- or dis- only because both can mean not, without checking the actual word used in English.
Helpful hint
Cover the prefix, read the base word, then add the prefix meaning.
Worksheet 1