A STUDENT sits at a desk. He finishes writing on some index cards.
STUDENT: Did you know that you can break the prefix or suffix off a word to help determine their meaning? All you have to do is recognize the affix and what it means. Like this.
The STUDENT holds up an index card with atypical written on it.
STUDENT: I just read the word atypical. I don’t know the meaning of this word but I can break the prefix, a, from the root word, typical.
The STUDENT cuts the index card to show this. He holds up the two pieces separately.
STUDENT: I know that the prefix a means not or without, and the root word typical means what is expected.
STUDENT: So, putting the words back together...
The STUDENT moves the card pieces back together.
STUDENT: ...atypical means, not what is expected. That makes sense in the sentence, snow in Miami is an atypical weather experience.
The STUDENT holds up an index card that shows the word deforestation.
STUDENT: Here’s another word I came across recently, deforestation. I recognized this word has both a prefix and a suffix.
The STUDENT cuts the card into three pieces. He holds up each piece as he speaks.
STUDENT: The prefix, de, means to reduce. The suffix ation means the state of. If I put those words together with the root word forest...
The STUDENT holds the three pieces of card together and shows them to the camera.
STUDENT: ...I can determine that the word means the state of a forest is being reduced. That makes sense in the sentence, much of the deforestation is due to trees being cleared to create new farms.
STUDENT: I’m always looking for ways to understand words I'm not familiar with. What’s your strategy?
Summarize this transcript on 7th grade level words. in 3 sentences