All Activities
Maths

Compare Sizes

Overview

Children explore differences in size.

Learning Objective
Children compare objects using size language.

Resources needed

  • Objects of different sizes

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Show two objects.
  2. 2 Ask: 'Which is bigger? Which is smaller?'
  3. 3 Encourage children to explain.
  4. 4 Try more objects.
  5. 5 Group objects by size.
  6. 6 Use language: big, small, bigger, smaller.
  7. 7 Compare multiple objects.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Order objects by size
  • Use real-life items
  • Compare more than two objects
More information

Use consistent comparative language. Accept children's descriptions before introducing technical terms.

Begin with objects of very different sizes to make comparison obvious.

Can children use 'bigger than' and 'smaller than' correctly? Can they order three objects?

Use any available objects. Natural materials — sticks, stones, leaves — offer immediate and varied comparisons.

Children often compare only one dimension (e.g. height) when objects differ in multiple ways. A short, very wide object may confuse them if they only focus on height. Encourage children to say which dimension they are comparing.

Activity details
Early Years Easy 10–15 minutes No prep Pairs, Small Group Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Comparing Size