Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

What role do affixes play in word structure?

1. They change the meaning of a base word

2. They are always unpronounced

3. They are used only in compound words

4. They indicate past tense

The correct answer is: They change the meaning of a base word

Affixes play a significant role in word structure by modifying the meaning of a base word. An affix can be a prefix, which is added to the beginning of a word, or a suffix, which is attached to the end. When an affix is combined with a base word, it can create a new word with a different meaning or alter the grammatical function of the original word. For example, adding "un-" to the word "happy" transforms it into "unhappy," changing its meaning to the opposite. Similarly, adding "-ing" to "run" creates "running," indicating an action in progress. This demonstrates how affixes enrich the vocabulary and allow for more precise expression of ideas and concepts. Other choices do not accurately convey the full role of affixes. For instance, the idea that affixes are always unpronounced is inaccurate, as many affixes are very much pronounced in speech. Saying affixes are used only in compound words limits their application, when in fact they can be integral in many types of words beyond just compounds. Lastly, while some affixes indicate past tense, this is a specific function and does not represent the comprehensive role that all affixes play in word structure.