All Activities
Maths

Sort and Group Objects

Overview

Children group objects based on similarities.

Learning Objective
Children sort objects by different properties.

Resources needed

  • Mixed objects

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Provide a group of mixed objects.
  2. 2 Ask children to sort them.
  3. 3 Discuss how they sorted them.
  4. 4 Try a new sorting rule.
  5. 5 Compare groups.
  6. 6 Count objects in each group.
  7. 7 Explain choices.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Sort by size
  • Sort by colour
  • Sort by shape
More information

Accept any valid sorting rule a child creates, even if unexpected. Ask 'why does this one go here?'

Provide containers labelled with drawings to guide sorting for children who need structure.

Can children explain their sorting rule? Can they resort by a different rule when asked?

Use a collection of natural objects gathered from outside. Draw circles on the ground to define sorting areas — no trays or containers needed.

Children may sort by a rule they cannot articulate, or change their rule partway through. Ask 'why does this one go here?' after every few objects to build consistent thinking.

Activity details
Early Years Easy 15–20 minutes No prep Solo, Pairs, Small Group Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Sorting Grouping