Unit Plan 17 (Grade K Math): Sort & Count
Sort objects by one attribute (color, shape, size), then count and compare category totals using more, fewer, or same to build early data and classification skills.
Focus: Sort objects into categories by a visible attribute (color/shape/size); count and compare category counts using more, fewer, and same.
Grade Level: K
Subject Area: Mathematics (Measurement & Data)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students practice classifying everyday objects by one attribute (e.g., color), then counting how many are in each category and telling which has more, fewer, or the same. They use sorting mats, linking cubes, and simple labels to organize and communicate their ideas.
Essential Questions
- What rule can I use to sort these objects?
- How do I count and record how many are in each category?
- How can I tell which category has more, fewer, or the same?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Sort a mixed set by a single attribute and place each item in the correct category.
- Count objects in each category using one-to-one correspondence and say the total.
- Compare category counts and state which has more, fewer, or the same.
- Record counts with simple labels, cube towers, or matching numerals.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Kindergarten (threaded across the unit)
- K.MD.3: Classify objects into given categories; count the numbers of objects in each category and sort the categories by count.
- Mathematical Practices: MP.5 (Use tools strategically) emphasized; MP.2, MP.6 threaded.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can say my sorting rule and put each object in the right category.
- I can count each category and show the number.
- I can tell which group has more, fewer, or the same.