Sorting and Classifying

One of the things we focus on within math is the ability to sort and classify. In kindergarten we learn how to classify objects into given categories, count the numbers of objects in each category, and sort the categories by count. Throughout the year we will learn that objects can be described by attributes, and these attributes help us classify.

We began our exploration of sorting today. As I was walking along I accidentally tripped and spilled all of the tools out of the table tub. Oops!!

Immediately Danique said "I can help!" and Maria quickly jumped in and gathered all the scissors. I told them all not to worry about it and that I could be responsible and clean up the mess. I quickly gathered everything in my hands and dumped it all into the tub:

After exclaiming "Okay, all finished!" there were many loud groans followed by, "No, no! You can't leave it like! You have to put everything back in its spot!" I was quick to remark that it didn't really matter and that they could find what they needed. Of course once again the students disagreed and said that if the tub was left this way they wouldn't be able to find what they needed. They decided to show me what to do:

As different students gathered like objects and put them together, we began to realize how much easier it would be to find the materials we needed. We had a bit more trouble when it came to the crayons, however. We realized that there were two of each color! How could we sort these? Lyla suggested that we put the same colors together and then put one of each color into two separate pouches. This way when the tub was put onto the table each person could reach the color they needed.

With help from our entire team we got our table tub all sorted and looking back to normal:

A discussion followed about how important it is to organize things, and we learned that we just did a skill called "sorting". We then thought of a time we have sorted things ourselves or seen things sorted. We drew these examples to show our current understanding of sorting and classifying. We handed these in as our 'exit tickets'.

We will continue our exploration of sorting and classifying next week. In the meantime, ask your child to identify objects you sort at home, and be sure to point out sorting as it is happening during your every-day movements!