Why Leaf Shape Sort works

Use Leaf Shape Sort as a practical way to explore low-impact observation of real outdoor evidence. Sort safe fallen leaves by overall shape while noticing that size and color can vary inside one shape group. Keep the first round centered on the move from having the child choose several safe fallen leaves to having them select one shape feature such as lobed, narrow or rounded.

Set up — Choose several safe fallen leaves

No special materials are needed before the child is asked to choose several safe fallen leaves. If the child is unsure how to choose several safe fallen leaves, simplify the setup before introducing the request to select one shape feature such as lobed, narrow or rounded. Stay inside the agreed area, walk rather than race, and leave plants and wildlife undisturbed during both of those opening steps.

Step 2 — Select one shape feature such as lobed, narrow or rounded

Use the result of asking the child to select one shape feature such as lobed, narrow or rounded as a clue for the next decision. Do not move on to create the first shape group until this step has a clear purpose.

Step 3 — Create the first shape group

Ask the child to create the first shape group. Compare what happens with the earlier step to select one shape feature such as lobed, narrow or rounded, then continue by asking them to continue sorting once the difference is clear.

Step 4 — Continue sorting

Let the child continue sorting and treat the result as information rather than simple repetition. If it is unclear, repeat that action before asking them to compare two leaves in the same group that differ in color or size.

Step 5 — Compare two leaves in the same group that differ in color or…

One careful attempt to compare two leaves in the same group that differ in color or size is enough at this stage. Before the child tries to compare two leaves in the same group that differ in color or size, ask them to show or describe what differed from when they had to continue sorting.

What to notice before Compare two leaves in the same group that…

The activity is working when the child uses what happened while trying to create the first shape group to make sense of the request to continue sorting. That is where what the child can support with something actually seen, heard, or recorded becomes visible.

Make Create the first shape group easier or harder

An easier round can stop after the child has tried to select one shape feature such as lobed, narrow or rounded; in that version, stay in a small area and look for one obvious example. For more challenge, compare two locations, times, or examples without disturbing nature while keeping the path to compare two leaves in the same group that differ in color or size recognizable.

Finish after Compare two leaves in the same group that…

Stop once the child understands why the sequence finishes with compare two leaves in the same group that differ in color or size. There is no need for a harder finale; browse the activity search or make a related activity with the activity generator.