Teaching & Learning Page

Teaching Morphology with Explicit, Direct Instruction in the Classroom

At Surfside Primary, we use evidence-based approaches to teach children foundational language skills. One key focus is morphology—the study of how words are built from smaller meaningful parts called morphemes. These include prefixes (re-) base words (play), and suffixes (-ing)

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What Does Morphology Instruction Look Like?

We teach morphology explicitly and directly, breaking it into simple, clear steps that build on one another. Here's how:

1. Start with the Basics
   We introduce base words, prefixes, or suffixes and their meaning. For example,                re- (back, again), play (to do) and -ed (in the past).   
2. Add Word Parts (Morphemes)
   Next, we explore how prefixes and suffixes can change a word’s meaning. For instance, adding re- to play makes replay, meaning to play again. 
3. Follow Structured Routines
   Lessons are consistent and follow a predictable structure:
   • Introduce: We explicitly teach one concept at a time (e.g., what a prefix is).
   • Demonstrate: Students see examples of words being built and changed (play→playing→played→playful).
   • Practice: Students actively build and analyse words using word sums (play + ing → playing).
   • Apply: We connect these skills to reading and writing activities.
4. Make It Multi-Sensory
   We use a multi-sensory approach, meaning to reinforce learning they:
   • Build words with word cards and diagrams.
   • Watch larger words being broken into their parts.
   • Repeat and say bases, prefixes, and suffixes and their associated meaning.
   • Use gestures to represent different morphemes.
5. Focus on Rules and Patterns
   We teach spelling rules that help children understand why words change, like doubling the final consonant in run to make running. By learning these patterns, children become more confident readers and spellers. Click on the links to watch a lesson or one of our students.

Why Teach Morphology?

Understanding morphology helps children:

• Read unfamiliar words.
• Spell words accurately by recognising patterns.
• Build vocabulary by understanding how prefixes and suffixes change meanings.

This structured and engaging approach ensures all students develop a strong foundation in literacy, setting them up for success in all areas of learning.

Thank you for partnering with us to help your children grow into confident, skilled readers and writers!