Why Shadow Match works

Shadow Match is designed to practice reasoning that can be explained from visible clues or rules through a sequence that begins when the child is asked to choose one silhouette and trace its outer contour with a finger. Match an object or picture to its silhouette by comparing outer contour rather than internal color or detail. The opening action leads directly into the moment when the child is asked to compare its widest, narrowest and protruding parts.

Set up — Choose one silhouette and trace its outer contour with a finger

No special materials are needed before the child is asked to choose one silhouette and trace its outer contour with a finger. Keep the space simple enough that the child can move from choose one silhouette and trace its outer contour with a finger to compare its widest, narrowest and protruding parts without rearranging everything. Use age-appropriate pieces and avoid small loose parts for children who may mouth objects while the child works through the first instruction to choose one silhouette and trace its outer contour with a finger.

Step 2 — Compare its widest, narrowest and protruding parts

One careful attempt to compare its widest, narrowest and protruding parts is enough at this stage. Before the child tries to check candidate pictures one at a time, ask them to show or describe what differed from when they had to choose one silhouette and trace its outer contour with a finger.

Step 3 — Check candidate pictures one at a time

Use the result of asking the child to check candidate pictures one at a time as a clue for the next decision. Do not move on to match the picture whose outer shape fits best until this step has a clear purpose.

Step 4 — Match the picture whose outer shape fits best

Ask the child to match the picture whose outer shape fits best. Compare what happens with the earlier step to check candidate pictures one at a time, then continue by asking them to explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate once the difference is clear.

Step 5 — Explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate

Let the child explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate and treat the result as information rather than simple repetition. If it is unclear, repeat that action before asking them to explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate.

What to notice before Explain one contour clue that ruled out another…

Use the attempt to check candidate pictures one at a time as the observation point. If the child understands why they are next asked to match the picture whose outer shape fits best, the final request to explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate should feel connected.

Make Check candidate pictures one at a time easier or harder

A shorter version can finish after the child has tried to check candidate pictures one at a time, using this support: use fewer items and make the relevant difference more obvious. An advanced version can continue to explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate after you add one plausible distractor, remove one cue, or ask the child to explain the rule.

Finish after Explain one contour clue that ruled out another…

Explain one contour clue that ruled out another candidate. End with that completed action and save the next variation for another round. Find the next activity in the activity search, or make a new one with the activity generator.