Comparing Sizes
To develop understanding of size comparisons through everyday experiences.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Mathematics
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Compares two objects by size
- Uses size vocabulary
- Orders by size with support
- Notices size differences
Materials
- Objects of different sizes
- Sorting resources
- Stories about size (e.g., Goldilocks)
- Measuring tools
Instructions
Embed comparison vocabulary in everyday conversation: 'You need the BIG spade for the sand—the little one is too small.' 'Your tower is TALLER than mine!' 'Which book is LONGER?' Make comparisons feel natural rather than like a maths lesson.
Read books that feature size as a theme: 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' (big, medium, small), 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' (small then big), 'Elmer' (bigger than other elephants). Discuss size comparisons as you read: 'Whose chair was just right?'
Provide collections to sort by size: three bears of different sizes, nesting dolls, measuring cups, stones from large to small. Ask: 'Can you put them in order? Which is biggest? Which is smallest?'
Start with direct comparisons of two objects: 'Which brick is bigger?' 'Which string is longer?' 'Whose feet are bigger—yours or mine?' Put objects side by side to make comparison clear and concrete.
Once children grasp big and small, introduce the 'middle' size. Goldilocks is perfect for this: 'Daddy Bear's is too big, Baby Bear's is too small, Mummy Bear's is just right—it's in the middle!'
Progress to ordering three objects: 'Can you put these bears in a line from smallest to biggest?' Model the strategy: 'First I find the smallest... then I look for the next smallest... this one is the biggest, so it goes at the end.'
Introduce non-standard measurement: 'How many hands long is the table?' 'How many blocks tall are you?' This develops the concept of measurement before standard units become relevant.
Use children's bodies for comparison and make it physical: 'Stand back to back—who's taller?' 'Stretch your arms—whose arms are longer?' 'Who can jump higher?' Physical comparison is memorable and engaging.