Step in Progression
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Interaction Ideas (Attribute blocks)
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Objects the same
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As opportunities arise naturally, identify a shape and ask the children to find another one that is the same. Question them about what makes the shapes the same to draw their attention to the features of the objects.
When children are playing with shapes support them to find pairs of shapes that are the same. Encourage pairings based on a variety of different shape features, as this extends the range of features children are familiar with. For example:
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Objects the same and different
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As opportunities arise in play encourage children to sort shapes on the basis of their similarities and differences. This helps them develop the understanding that similar objects can be grouped. For example:
Follow the sorting with questions that encourage children to describe their thinking with a focus on the attributes of the shapes:
Use the shape sorting questions above in a variety of role play contexts. For example:
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Classifying objects
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When children are playing with 2-dimensional shapes and 3-dimensional objects, provide them with some boxes and encourage them to sort the shapes into these. Listening to the features the children use to sort will give you information about the features they know. Focus on unknown features to extend their knowledge.
Play a "guess the shape" game by hiding a shape inside an opaque bag and telling the children about its features. Take turns hiding and describing the shape. Ask each child to get a shape they think is the same as the one in the bag.
After everybody has chosen a shape, reveal the hidden shape and ask the children about the shapes they have selected.
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Click for a version with the questions in both English and Māori.
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