This activity is best used in a math center or guided small group to practice comparing weight.

The resource includes:

• a spinner
• a “heavier”, “lighter”, and “same” sorting mat
• an instruction sheet.

How To Play

Print the sorting mat and spinner on cardstock for added durability. Cut out the arrow and attach it to the spinner. Alternatively, use a large paper clip for the spinner. Students place the paper clip in the center of the spinner and secure it with the eraser side of their pencil. Then, they thump the paper clip, allowing it to spin around the spinner until it lands on one of the sides.

Students take turns choosing an object that will become their “focus object”. They will place this object on one side of a balance scale and spin the spinner. If the spinner lands on “heavier,” they will choose an object they believe is heavier than their focus object and place it on the other side of the scale. If they are correct, they will place the object in the “heavier” section of the sorting mat. If they are incorrect, they will place the object back in the collection. Students will continue to spin and choose objects, placing them in the appropriate sections of the mat.

Other Ways to Use This Resource

This resource could be used in a number of different ways.

I Spy

Begin the activity with one person choosing an object in the room as the “focus object.” After spinning the spinner, the next person names an object accordingly.

Draw It!

Chose an object and draw it. After each spin of the spinner, draw another object that is heavier, lighter, or approximately the same weight.

Looking for other resources related to weight? Click on the links below.

teaching resource

Which Is Heavier? – Interactive PowerPoint

An interactive PowerPoint quiz that asks students to compare the mass of various everyday objects.