MA 7.01Comparing Lengths and Heights Directly
The child lines up two or more objects at a common starting point and describes them as longer, shorter, taller, or the same length.
Presentation
- 1
Take two ribbons. Lay both with one end on the starting line.
- 2
Point to the other ends: 'This one is longer. This one is shorter.'
- 3
Three-period lesson with longer and shorter.
- 4
Show that if the ends are not lined up the comparison is not fair; line them up again.
- 5
Order three ribbons from shortest to longest.
- 6
Compare the heights of two objects standing on the same table: taller and shorter.
- 7
Find two objects that are the same length.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Order five objects from shortest to longest.
- Compare heights of two children standing back to back.
- Find something in the room longer than the child's arm and something shorter.
Control of error
When the starting ends are lined up, the difference shows at the other end; the guide checks the words used.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Lines up objects at a common start without reminders
- Uses longer, shorter, taller, and the same correctly
- Orders three or more objects by length
Guide note
The Sensorial Red Rods and Brown Stair are the indirect preparation. This work applies the same comparison to everyday objects.