1. Greek Bases graph, gram and Latin Bases scrib, script
Mean “write”

2. Define these words in context using the root meaning “write”
Create a diagram
An ungrammatical sentence
A mathematical graph
A polygraph test
A child’s scribble
A school transcript
A doctor’s prescription
To describe an event
Indescribable joy

3. Notice: “Un” in ungrammatical is negating prefix
“Poly” (many) + “graph” (write) = a machine that was meant to “write” the “many” pulses of a person’s heart rate to detect lying

4. Notice: “le” in “scribble” means “small” – insignificant writing
“trans” (movement) + “script” (write) = “writing” that was “moved” from one form (spoken) to another (text)

5. Notice:
“Pre” (before) + “scription” (writing) = a note requiring a doctor’s “written” signature “before” medicine can be received
“In” in “indescribable” is a negating prefix

6. Complete the sentences with the words that best fit.
scribe seismograph calligrapher graphomaniac
1. A __________is someone who is overly fond of writing.
2. A ____________ is someone who specializes in artistic handwriting.
3. A ____________ records earthquakes and tremors.
4. Today, a ____________ is someone who copies texts. But in ancient times, it was someone who copied, taught, or studied the sacred laws of Scripture.

7. Common Prefixes to Know
de- = down, off from
inter- = between, among
trac-, tract- = pull, draw, drag
ab- = away, from
con-, com- = with, together, very
pro- = forward, for
in-, im- = in, on, into, not
re- = back, again
ad- = to, toward, add to