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P.1 Compare big and small

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Understanding Big and Small

When comparing objects, big means the object takes up more space, is heavier, or is taller or wider. Small means the object takes up less space, is lighter, or is shorter or narrower. Students learn to look closely at the overall size to decide which is bigger or smaller.

Example Comparisons:
  • An elephant is bigger than a tiger.
  • A bus is bigger than a car.
  • A basketball is bigger than a baseball.
Teacher Tip

Encourage students to compare objects side by side or in the same picture. This makes it easier to see the difference in size.

Using Pictures and Real Objects

Pictures and real-life items help students see and compare sizes. By placing two objects next to each other in the same position, it becomes easier to tell which one is bigger and which is smaller.

Hands-On Examples:
  • Place an apple next to a watermelon. The watermelon is bigger.
  • Draw a picture of a mouse next to a dog. The dog is bigger.
  • Compare a cup to a bottle. The bottle is bigger.
Helpful Strategy

Use classroom objects or toys in pairs. Ask students to point to the bigger one, then to the smaller one. Repeat with different objects to reinforce understanding.

Comparing Size in Everyday Life

Size comparisons happen every day, whether looking at animals, vehicles, or household items. Recognizing these differences builds observation skills and vocabulary.

Real-Life Examples:
  • Compare a house to an apartment building.
  • Compare a tree to a bush.
  • Compare a train to a bicycle.
Engagement Tip

Ask students to find two objects in the classroom, playground, or home and tell which is bigger and which is smaller. This connects learning to their environment.

Describing Size Differences

When talking about size, students can use words like “much bigger,” “slightly bigger,” “smaller,” and “about the same size.” This helps them describe their observations more clearly.

Descriptive Comparisons:
  • The bus is much bigger than the car.
  • The pencil is smaller than the ruler.
  • The two cups are about the same size.
Language Support

Model full sentences when comparing, such as “The dog is bigger than the cat.” Encourage students to use complete sentences for clear communication.

Sorting Objects by Size

Students can arrange objects from biggest to smallest or smallest to biggest. This helps them understand order and relative size while strengthening comparison skills.

Ordering Examples:
  • Line up a cup, a bottle, and a bucket from smallest to biggest.
  • Arrange toy animals by size from biggest to smallest.
  • Order pictures of an ant, a butterfly, and a bird from smallest to biggest.
Instructional Tip

Let students physically move objects into order. This active approach reinforces the concept of comparing sizes while keeping them engaged.