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    Back to Activities

    Living vs. Non-Living Sorting Game

    Plants and Animals in Our Lives

    20 minutes
    Whole class, then small groups
    Game

    Learning Objective

    Distinguish between living and non-living things in the local environment

    Materials Needed

    • Real objects (leaves, shells, toy animals, rocks, flowers)
    • Two hoops or circles on the floor
    • Labels: 'Living' and 'Non-Living'
    • Collection basket

    Preparation

    1. 1Collect safe, local objects that are clearly living or non-living
    2. 2Set up two hoops or circles on the floor
    3. 3Place labels in each circle
    4. 4Have objects ready in a basket

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. 1Introduce the terms 'living' and 'non-living' with simple examples
    2. 2Explain: Living things grow, need food and water, and can have babies
    3. 3Show each object and discuss together first
    4. 4Children take turns picking an object and placing it in the correct hoop
    5. 5Encourage them to explain their choice: 'The mango tree leaf is living because it grows'
    6. 6Celebrate correct choices and gently guide incorrect ones

    Assessment

    • Can the child correctly sort most objects?
    • Does the child give a simple reason for their choice?
    • Can the child identify characteristics of living things?

    Extensions

    • Take the game outside and find objects to add to the hoops
    • Create a living/non-living book with drawings
    • Play 'I Spy' with living and non-living things
    • Sort classroom objects

    Teaching Tips

    • Start with very obvious examples (rock vs. flower)
    • Use movement: 'Show me how a plant grows'
    • Connect to children's pets or plants at home
    • Keep explanations simple and concrete
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