ISEE Middle Level Verbal Reasoning

Explore the skills and strategies needed to excel in the ISEE Middle Level Verbal Reasoning section, focusing on vocabulary, word relationships, and critical language analysis.

Building a Strong VocabularyUnderstanding Word Relationships (Analogies)Critical Language Analysis
Mastering Synonyms and AntonymsDeciphering Word Roots and OriginsContextual Reasoning and Inference
Applying Verbal Reasoning in Everyday CommunicationUsing Vocabulary to Succeed in School SubjectsDecoding Instructions and Signs
Process of EliminationUsing Context Clues
Building a Strong Vo...Understanding Word R...Critical Language An...Mastering Synonyms a...Deciphering Word Roo...Contextual Reasoning...Applying Verbal Reas...Using Vocabulary to ...Decoding Instruction...Process of Eliminati...Using Context Clues
Advanced Topics

Deciphering Word Roots and Origins

Why Roots Matter

Many English words are built from Latin or Greek roots. Knowing these roots can help you figure out the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Common Examples

  • 'Bio-' means life: biology, biography
  • '-ology' means study of: geology, psychology
  • 'Tele-' means far: telephone, television

How to Use Roots

  • Break down big words into parts.
  • Guess meanings of new words by analyzing their roots.

Everyday Relevance

Understanding roots helps you learn vocabulary quickly and makes complex words less intimidating in school and daily life.

Examples

  • Knowing 'aqua' means water helps you understand 'aquarium.'

  • Figuring out 'microscope' means 'device to see small things' from 'micro-' and '-scope.'

In a Nutshell

Word roots give clues to the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Key Terms

Root
The main part of a word that carries its basic meaning.
Suffix
A group of letters added to the end of a word that changes its meaning.
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Contextual Reasoning and Inference