SE 1.05Red Rods

1. 1

   Invite the child and unroll a long rug near the rods.

2. 2

   Show how to carry a rod: stand beside it, hold it with one hand near each end, and carry it upright or level at the side so it does not hit others.

3. 3

   Bring the rods one at a time and place them at random on the rug.

4. 4

   Choose the longest rod and place it at the top of the rug.

5. 5

   Find the next longest, place it below the first with the left ends aligned, and continue until all ten form a stair.

6. 6

   Run your hand along the left ends to show they are even, then walk your hand down the steps.

7. 7

   Place the shortest rod beside each step to show each step is the length of the shortest rod.

8. 8

   Return the rods to the stand one at a time.

What catches the child’s eye

• The longest rod, as long as the child is tall, carried level across the room
• The shortest rod laid on each step and fitting it exactly

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Grade the rods with the ends aligned at the right.
2. Arrange the rods in a pattern such as a maze or a spiral, keeping the order.
3. Grade the rods with eyes closed, measuring each by running a hand along it.
4. Bring rods from across the room in order.
5. Use the shortest rod to measure each of the other rods.