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
- 1Collect safe, local objects that are clearly living or non-living
- 2Set up two hoops or circles on the floor
- 3Place labels in each circle
- 4Have objects ready in a basket
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Introduce the terms 'living' and 'non-living' with simple examples
- 2Explain: Living things grow, need food and water, and can have babies
- 3Show each object and discuss together first
- 4Children take turns picking an object and placing it in the correct hoop
- 5Encourage them to explain their choice: 'The mango tree leaf is living because it grows'
- 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