Classifying Task

Students sort items into categories — either teacher-given or self-created — then compare their classifications with other groups. The variety of responses is what drives discussion.

Procedure

1. Give students a list of items (from a prior listing or brainstorming task).
2. Either provide categories or ask students to create their own.
3. Students sort items into categories in pairs/groups.
4. Groups compare their classifications — different categorizations generate discussion.
5. Optional: display classifications on a chart or mind map.

Variations

• Two-way sort: positive/negative, agree/disagree, healthy/unhealthy.
• Open sort: students invent their own categories (more challenging, richer language).
• Progressive: start with a two-way sort, then refine into more specific categories.

Tips

• When students create their own categories, the variety of responses stimulates richer discussion than teacher-given categories.
• Give one or two example categories first if students are unfamiliar with the task type.
• Feeds naturally into "Odd One Out" games using the classified sets.