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Year 4 - English

Using and applying all the rules for the suffix -ous

Verb and adjective suffixes

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn spelling and grammar conventions associated with certain verb and adjective suffixes, like -ate, -en, -ify, -ise and -ous. Pupils will review and learn more examples of how the addition of a suffix can affect the grammar of a word, for example its word class or tense.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to spell a range of words using the suffix -ous.

Key Notes

  • There are four spelling rules when adding -ous to a root word.
  • Some words ending in -ous do not have a root word we recognise.
  • When you hear the 'ee' sound before -ous, the most likely spelling is an 'i', but it is sometimes an 'e'.
  • How to spell the curriculum words: guard, exercise and decide.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • root word: the base word from which other words are formed often by adding prefixes or suffixes
  • suffix: a letter or group of letters added to the end of a root word
  • pronunciation: the way in which a word is spoken
  • adjective: describes a noun

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may not know or understand the meaning of many words encountered in the lesson.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

There are four spelling rules when adding -ous to a root word. Some words ending in -ous do not have a root word we recognise.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'root word'

the base word from which other words are formed often by adding prefixes or suffixes.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils may not know or understand the meaning of many words encountered in the lesson. Correction: Put all unfamiliar vocabulary into simple sentences to expose children to the meaning. Make links to root words where possible.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 4 English guide library.