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
These words go together. Which word belongs with them?
mutter · exclaim · shout
- A: rectangle
- B: whisper (the answer)
- C: pig
- D: argon
- E: car
Why: Mutter, exclaim, shout are all ways of speaking. “whisper” is one too.
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
Which word does NOT belong with the others?
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