Graph Mats

In the primary grades, sorting is such an important part of not only Data Management but Patterning as well.  How do we help our young learners become better sorters?  Why not give them a sorting mat!  These sorting mats were finds from the local dollar store.  In addition to the plastic that they sit on, I also purchased black electrical tape to make the actual lines on the mat.  The mats are hard plastic and are about 11x17.  If your dollar store does not have them, then you can use cookie sheets or a large plastic tray.  For a large size of any of the mats use coloured duct tape and plastic shower curtains (also from the dollar store) for mats that are big enough for the children to stand on.

For sorting items into two groups.

For sorting or graphing items into 4 groups.

The classic T-chart.

For sorting items into three groups.