Classifying and sorting comes naturally to most children but educators can really capitalize on that stage to further a child’s learning. These activities serve an important purpose in teaching children about the world as well as relationships and non-relationships. Learning to classify and sort objects is a precursor to more advanced math skills as well as life skills. Children with a firm grasp of classification are able to understand what belongs where and why. This knowledge goes deeper to an understanding of patterning, spatial relationships, organizing, applying rules, and thinking logically and sequentially.
Steps in teaching classification:
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1
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Identify the objects.
First and foremost, the child must identify the object to be sorted. If they are unaware of the object and its purpose, characteristics, or attributes it becomes nearly impossible to classify and later sort. Help them identify objects by giving them opportunities to use them and learn about them. |
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2
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Compare the objects.
Next, children should compare and contrast the objects and identify their similarities and differences. This skill builds upon the previous skill of identifying the objects. Children will see some similarities and not others at first but later will add more characteristics that they understand. Support this by asking questions and gently guiding the comparisons. |
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3
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Classify the objects.
After identifying objects and comparing those, children are able to classify the objects. First, classifying is done mentally and later groups begin to form physically as they are sorted. Different objects will be sorted different ways and eventually new and more intricate categories will be created. Keep a child’s interest by creating more challenging ways to classify and sort as well as giving new and unexpected items. |
School Readiness
Classifying objects is an early math skill that will be built upon in Kindergarten. A quality ECE program will make these connections to school readiness and support them with every possible opportunity. Kindergarten math skills rely heavily on the ability for children to deepen their understanding of shapes, sizes, numerical values, and relationships (Shaw, N.D.). Classifying and sorting objects in early childhood education programs will support school readiness by giving children a solid foundation in the skills they need for further math concepts.
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Optional Resources for Further Study
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