240 Sorting Lunchboxes

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Teacher Notes


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Activity OutcomeIdentifying similarities and differences in lunchboxes. Sorting lunchboxes into groups. Length. Size. 3D Shape.
MTS Set 1
NSW Curriculum DS1 Data
Topics Collect and Organise Data
Summarise and Represent Data
Keywords Sorting, Classifying, Arranging
GroupingWhole class and small group
ResourcesLunchboxes for children to observe.
Lesson Notes
  • Provide children with the opportunity to observe and describe lunchboxes including features and functions. See also Integration Links below.
  • Ask: How are lunchboxes the same? How are lunchboxes different? Discuss ideas posed by children.
  • Direct children to the activity sheet and ask: Can you draw 2 things that are the same about all lunchboxes? (box shape, hold food, made of plastic, 'flat' sides, corners...) Can you draw 2 things that are not always the same about lunchboxes? (colour, size, shape...)
  • Provide children with the opportunity to share their drawings and ideas with the class. (See also Reflections below.)
ReflectionsAsk: After several children have shared their drawings and ideas ask: Can you tell me what James/Brenda... told us about lunchboxes? Did Graeme/Toni... have ideas different to yours? How were Graeme's/Toni's... ideas different to yours? Has anyone shared the same ideas as you?
Integration Links Health: Discuss: Healthy lunches, caring for a lunchbox.
Mathematics: Space: Shape: What shape is a lunchbox?
Mathematics: Measurement: How big is a lunchbox?
English: Speaking and Listening/Writing: You have lost your lunchbox! How would you describe it?

Internet Links http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Hollow/4131/history.html An American site but has interesting historical photos showing changing interests of children through lunchboxes.

AnswersNot applicable