Use this hands-on resource in a variety of ways to encourage comparison. The spinner and sorting mat can be used independently or in small groups.

This resource is ideal for the early years classroom as it is designed to be used in conjunction with manipulatives of your choice. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-have! Both the spinner and sorting mat can be used alone or in combination. They could also be used in conjunction with other items such as dice, number cards, number lines etc. You decide how it works best in your classroom!

The resource includes:

• a spinner with the labels ‘heavier’, ‘lighter’ and ‘same’
• a sorting mat
• suggestions on how to use the resource.

Print the spinner and sorting mat on thick card for durability, and attach the arrow to the spinner with a split pin.

Why are Sorting Activities Important?

When students compare things based on a specific attribute, e.g. size, weight, number, colour etc., they are able to make decisions about grouping and categorising. They hone their skills in observation as they focus on the similarities and differences. These skills are essential forerunners for mathematical understanding. Sorting activities also provide opportunities for language development and fine motor skills.

Looking for other spinners to try in your classroom? Try one of these:

teaching resource

Spin and Sort – More, Less, Same

An open-ended sorting activity based on using a spinner.

teaching resource

Spin and Sort – Longer, Shorter, Same

An open-ended sorting activity based on using a spinner.

teaching resource

Positional Language Spinner

Have fun using this spinner to reinforce understanding of positional language!