Minds On
Different ways to sort
What are some ways we can sort these sports balls? Are they the same size? Are they the same shape?
We are going to sort the sports balls according to two of their attributes: size and texture (feel). Attributes are things that describe an object.
Can you think of a way to sort your data based on size and texture? How can you record your data?
Action
Task 1: Sorting sports balls
We can sort and organize the data we collect in different ways. We can create charts, tables or graphs.
We are going to use a Carroll diagram to sort the sports balls. A Carroll diagram is a chart that sorts data based on attributes. We are going to sort the sports balls based on size and texture.
The two options for size are large or small.
The two options for texture are smooth or rough.
You can use the following fillable and printable Carroll Diagram – Sports Balls, your notebook, or a voice recorder to sort the balls and record your answers.
| Attributes | Small | Large |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth | ||
| Rough |
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access Carroll Diagram – Sports Balls.
Press 'Hint' to reveal sample answers
| Attributes | Small | Large |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth | Tennis Ball | Volleyball, Soccerball, Basketball |
| Rough | Golf Ball | Football |
Task 2: Sorting animals
We are now going to sort a set of animals: kangaroo, dog, cat, duck, chicken, and parrot.
Think about different attributes we can use to sort these animals. Remember, attributes are features that describe an item.
When we sorted the sports balls, we used the attributes size and texture. What two attributes can we use to sort the animals?
Let’s sort the animals by these two attributes: number of legs and outer coat (fur or feathers).
You can use the fillable and printable Carroll Diagram – Animals, your notebook, or a voice recorder to sort the animals and record your answers.
| Attributes | Walks on 2 legs | Walks on 4 legs |
|---|---|---|
| Has fur | ||
| Has feathers |
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access Carroll Diagram – Animals.
Press 'Hint' to reveal sample answers.
| Attributes | Walks on 2 legs | Walks on 4 legs |
|---|---|---|
| Has fur | kangaroo | dog, cat |
| Has feathers | parrot, chicken, duck |
Reflect
Why is sorting data useful?
Task 3: Sorting animals in other ways (optional)
What are two other different attributes you could use to sort the animals?
Consider if the animals can walk or fly, lay eggs or don’t lay egg, live on land or live in the water, etc.
Reflect on your thoughts, and if possible, share them with a peer or small group.
Consolidation
Independent task
Choose one category from the list below and think of six items that belong to the same category.
Examples of categories include:
- books
- school supplies
- craft supplies
- pillows
- sports balls
- clothing items
- type of shoes
Can you think of ways to sort the six items you picked? What two different attributes could you use? Texture? Size? Other features?
You can use the following fillable and printable Carroll Diagram – Items, your notebook, or a voice recorder to list and sort your items and record your answers.
| Item 1 | Item 2 | Item 3 |
| Item 4 | Item 5 | Item 6 |
| Attributes | #1 | #2 |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | ||
| #2 |
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access Carroll Diagram – Items.
Reflection
How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity? Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.
I feel…
Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.