CONCEPT SORT
Concept sort is a vocabulary and comprehension pre-reading strategy for working with individual students, small groups, or the whole class. This practice familiarizes students with the vocabulary of the new/relevant topic or book of discussion in class.
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How to use a concept sort:
If your goal is to teach a concept, gather 10-15 objects or pictures that demonstrate that concept. Or, if your goal is to teach a concept or vocabulary that is presented in a book, choose 10-15 relevant, important words from the book.
Have the students sort the cards or objects into groups. The groups (or categories) can be pre-defined by the teacher (often called a closed sort) or by the students (often called an open sort).
Discuss the categories used within the different groups. Describe why certain cards were placed within certain groups.