MA 8.01Sorting and Classifying Objects
The child sorts a mixed basket of objects into groups by one attribute, such as color, shape, or size, and then counts each group.
Age 3–4½Work 1 of 6 in Data and Geometry
Presentation
- 1
Empty the basket onto the mat and look at the objects together.
- 2
Pick up a red button: 'This is red. I will put all the red ones here.' Place several red buttons in one bowl.
- 3
Invite the child to place the next red one.
- 4
Start a second bowl for blue buttons; the child continues until all are sorted.
- 5
Ask: 'How did we sort them?' The child names the rule: by color.
- 6
Mix the objects and ask the child to sort them another way, such as by size.
- 7
For older children: count each group and say which has more.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Sort by a rule the child chooses; a friend guesses the rule.
- Sort by two attributes (big red, small red).
- Count each group and write the count on a card beside it.
Control of error
Each object in a group must share the named attribute; the child or guide checks group by group.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Sorts by color, shape, or size without help
- Names the sorting rule
- Sorts the same objects in a second way