Big and Small Measurement Sort involves sorting big and small umbrellas (cupcake cases/patty pans) is a simple activity to introduce children to early measurement concepts.
This activity was inspired by our learning about the letter U, reading the story Ella’s Umbrellas by Jennifer Lloyd and a previous activity we did that involved umbrellas with cupcake cases.
Cupcake cases come in a variety of sizes which made them perfect for sorting into size categories. When a cupcake case is cut in half they make the perfect umbrella shape, finishing it off by drawing on the ‘J’ shaped handle.
What you will need?
You will need an A3 sheet of paper, black marker pen, small and big cupcake cases and glue.
Pair this activity with the story book:
Ella’s Umbrellas by Jennifer Lloyd, Illustrated by Ashley Spires
Let’s Play
Sorting big and small umbrellas is a great activity to introduce and play with the concept of measurement. Giving children the opportunity to compare objects and use language associated with measurement, such as smaller than, bigger than, biggest, smallest, etc.
Some Ideas:
- Talk about the similarities and differences – size, and shape.
- Look at other objects around the room. Please find me an object that is small than a pillow or larger than a pencil.
- Use and encourage language associated with measurement. Is this one bigger that this one?
Let’s Learn
Learning Opportunities
- Fine Motor Development
- Hand-Eye Coordination and Control
- Concentration
- Spatial awareness – experimenting with shape and space
- Language development – bigger and smaller than, big and small
- Mathematics – measurement, comparing two objects (size)
- Problem solve and overcome challenges
Click here for more MEASUREMENT activities & play ideas
