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Sorting and odd one out

Strategy card

Every group has a rule that fits all its members.

  1. Step 1: Name what all the group members share.
  2. Step 2: Make the rule exact (not just "animals", but "animals that fly").
  3. Step 3: Test each choice against the rule.
  4. Step 4: Pick the one that fits every part of the rule.

Tip: If more than one answer fits, your rule is too loose. Tighten it.

Worked example

These words go together. Which word belongs with them?

circle · triangle · hexagon

  • A: copper
  • B: car
  • C: rectangle (the answer)
  • D: cello
  • E: cow

Why: Circle, triangle, hexagon are all flat shapes. “rectangle” is one too.

Your turn

Your turn 1 of 3

The figures in the box follow one rule. Which answer follows the same rule?

striped red circleoutlined red squarebig outlined red diamond

Your turn 2 of 3

These words go together. Which word belongs with them?

Jupiter · Saturn · Venus

Your turn 3 of 3

The figures in the box follow one rule. Which answer follows the same rule?

small striped green hexagonbig striped red starbig striped yellow heart

Keep practicing

Grown-ups: Ask: "Could there be another rule? Which is better?" Parent guide

Next lesson: Number patterns