Sorting and odd one out
Strategy card
Classification means finding the narrowest rule all members satisfy.
- Step 1: List candidate shared features.
- Step 2: Choose the most specific one that every member has.
- Step 3: Test options; the distractors usually share a looser feature.
- Step 4: For odd-one-out, find the rule three share and the fourth breaks.
Tip: Be suspicious of a rule that would also fit the wrong answers.
Worked example
Which word does NOT belong with the others?
- A: oxygen
- B: argon
- C: neon
- D: hat (the answer)
- E: nitrogen
Why: The other words are all gases. “hat” is not.
Your turn
Your turn 1 of 3
The figures in the box follow one rule. Which answer follows the same rule?
Your turn 2 of 3
These words go together. Which word belongs with them?
brain · heart · stomach
Your turn 3 of 3
The figures in the box follow one rule. Which answer follows the same rule?
Keep practicing
Grown-ups: Discuss how scientists and librarians classify things. Parent guide
Next lesson: Number patterns