PRINT AND PLAY / 01 / EARLY MATH
Sort, count & compare
Make groups, count together and discover that the same objects can be sorted in different ways.
Give it a try.
- Invite the child to choose a way to group the shapes. They can point, draw a ring around a group or tell you where each one belongs.
- Count each group together, pointing to one shape for each number. Start with fewer shapes if that is more comfortable.
- Ask which group has more, fewer or the same number. Line up or connect pairs to compare.
- Try a new sorting rule: colour instead of shape. Notice that the total stays the same even when the groups change.
A QUESTION TO EXPLORE“How else could we put these into groups?”
A SMALLER START
Keep it simple.
Use two kinds of shape and let the child point while an adult draws the groups.
IF THEY WANT MORE
Take it further.
Draw one more shape. Predict which group it will join, then compare the totals again.
MAKE ROOM FOR EVERYONE
Find their way in.
Use shape or a drawn symbol as well as colour. Let the child answer by pointing, speaking, signing or drawing.
Something to remember.
Our sorting rule was… We counted… A different rule we tried was…
An optional conversation or paper note. There is no score, account or information to submit.