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Maths

Find the Odd One Out

Overview

Children compare items and find which is different.

Learning Objective
Children identify differences between objects or groups.

Resources needed

  • Sets of objects

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Show a group of objects with one different.
  2. 2 Ask: 'Which is different?'
  3. 3 Encourage children to explain why.
  4. 4 Discuss properties (size, shape, colour).
  5. 5 Repeat with new sets.
  6. 6 Let children create their own sets.
  7. 7 Share and discuss.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use numbers instead of objects
  • Use patterns
  • Make the difference more subtle
More information

Ask 'How is it different?' rather than just 'Which one?' to encourage reasoning.

Make the odd one out very obvious at first (e.g. one stone in a group of sticks).

Can children give a clear reason? Do they notice more than one possible odd one out?

Collect a set of similar natural objects with one clearly different one before the session. No prepared or purchased materials needed.

Children may identify an odd one out based on a personal preference ('I don't like that one') rather than a mathematical property. Ask 'how is it different from the others?' to redirect towards observable attributes.

Activity details
Early Years Medium 10–15 minutes No prep Small Group, Whole Class Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Comparing Sorting