Sorting

Sorting Work is the precursor to establishing order by grouping physical objects based on their likeness to one another. This can be done a number of ways, with a number of sorting containers, using a variety of materials. The key is to control for error by using objects that are easily sortable, while being fun and attractive at the same time. Young children tend to put marbles and other small objects in their mouth.  If setting exercise up for a young class, keep this in mind

Points of Interest

• Seeing the mixture of objects and seeing them sorted.
• Using the TFG to place objects and seeing them sorted.
• Carefully observing the object to be sorted.
• Seeing different shapes, sizes, and colors.

Control of Error

• Hearing tray being placed on table or objects in compartment.
• Seeing one or more objects in the wrong compartment.
• Dropping objects because of improper grasp.

Direct Aims

• To increase the ability to discriminate differences and similarities.
• To increase muscle control and coordination.
• To increase concentration.
• To increase finger dexterity.
• Preparation for left to right sequence.

Indirect Aims

• Preparation for writing.
• Preparation for reading.

Aditional Exercises

• Varying the number of objects.
• Sorting by color or texture (wear a blindfold when sorting by texture.)
• Sorting using letters of the alphabet.
• Using tongs to sort poker chips into an ice cube tray.
• Using tweezers or sugar cube tongs to sort with.

Extensions

• Manipulation of the Golden Bead materials in Math.