Suffix worksheets A suffix is a group of letters (sometimes called a morpheme) you can add to the end of a root word  to create a new word. A root word stands on its own with its own meaning, but new words can be made by adding beginnings (prefixes) or endings (suffixes). An example of a root word is care. A suffix (less) can be added to make a new word with a different meaning (careless). In the new Primary English Programme of Study adding suffixes to words is introduced in Year 1, using ing, ed, er and est where no change is needed in the spelling of the root word (e.g. helping, helper). In Year 2 further suffixes are introduced to spell longer words. These include: ment: which means the process of doing something or the result of an action (e.g. payment or retirement). ness: this is usually added to adjectives to make nouns that refer to quality or condition (e.g. madness or sadness). ful: meaning ‘full of’ or ‘having the quality of’ (e.g. playful or hopeful). Note that ‘ful’ at the end of a word only has one letter ‘l’ – writing using the double ‘l’ is a very common spelling mistake. less: added to the end of a noun meaning without (e.g. careless, spotless). ly: meaning in the manner of (e.g. quietly, badly). These can often form adverbs. We have just published a great selection of suffix worksheets on all of the above, including sentence writing and ‘Look, say, cover, write, check’ pages to help with spelling. Answers are also included. As well as the pages for younger children our later suffix worksheets use some really tricky words, especially with the 'ous' suffix. Words such as herbaceous, mendacious and ambidextrous are introduced. Whilst these might be very challenging to spell, many children will really enjoy getting to grips with them, because they 'roll of the tongue' well and it is important that children do not just use the words in a worksheet exercise but try to make them a part of their own vocabulary. Take a look at our very latest worksheets on suffixes.