Word Formation: Verb Derivation

Starter

Show learners the first slide with the two example sentences. Ask them to change the bracketed base words into adjectives by using an appropriate suffix. Allow them to try this independently and to share in small groups before checking together as a whole class. Show the second slide and explain how the suffix changes the word class from verb to adjective. 

Activity 1

Explain there are many more examples of verbs which can be changed into an adjective by using a variety of suffixes. Ask learners to copy down the base words and suffixes in the next slide and to attempt to match them, working individually. Next, ask them to compare in small groups before checking the answers as a whole class. Ask volunteers to come to the front and to match the words on the interactive white board. Drag and drop to connect, and double click to separate. 

Finally, ask learners to write their own sentences using each of the adjectives they formed. Remind them to watch out for any spelling changes! Have them compare in pairs or small groups and share the best ones with the whole class. 

Activity 2

Start by explaining it is also possible to form verbs from adjectives and nouns. Show the learners the six sentences. In each one, there is a base word in brackets which they need to form into a verb by adding the appropriate suffix. Remind them to also bear in mind the correct tense ending. Ask them to attempt this task individually, and then to share their answers in pairs or small groups. Show the next slide so learners can check their answers and make sure they have the right spelling.

Activity 3

Show the learners the next two example sentences. In each one they must transfrom the base word in brackets into a verb using the appropriate suffix. Ask learners what they notice. They should see that both words use the same suffix. They might also notice that one sentence uses a transitive verb and the other an intransitive verb.  

Show learners the final slide. Ask them to convert these four words into verbs (using the same suffix) and to try writing a transitive and intransitive sentence for each one. Compare sentences as a whole class. 

This lesson is adapted (with permission) from Words and Meanings: A Systematic Guide for the Teaching of English Vocabulary, by Gabriele Stein.

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