2. Why teach this lesson?
According to Developmental Profiles, three year olds show an understanding of basic size-shape
comparisons much of the time. (134)
Four year olds will understand the concepts of “tallest,” “biggest,” “same,” and “more.”
(Developmental Profiles 141)
Developmental Profiles states that four year olds will sort, classify, and pattern objects with
various attributes (smallest to biggest: color and shape: things that float or sink.) (141)
This activity will give the children practice ordering straws by size.
3. What will they learn?
The children will be able to order straws by length.
They will be able to order objects by measureable attribute (e.g.,
biggest to smallest, etc.).
4. What will you need?
Straws
Table
Tape
Nesting dolls
Construction paper
5. What to do!
I will gather the children to the circle area and announce that we are going to read a book!
I will read The Littlest Matryoshka.
I will say, these dolls fit together because of their different sizes. We have to put the littlest one
first and go up in sizes until they are all together!
After we have talked about the dolls, we will move to the art table.
I will give each child construction paper, and five straws.
I will explain, “We are going to order our straws from longest to shortest.”
Go ahead and order your straws and you may come get tape when you are ready to tape them in
order on your paper.
The children will order their straws and be dismissed as they finish.
