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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

Which word does NOT belong with the others?

  • A: tin
  • B: silver
  • C: gold
  • D: aluminum
  • E: circle (the answer)

Why: The other words are all metals. “circle” is not.

Your turn

Your turn 1 of 3

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

striped green trianglesmall striped red starsmall striped green square

Your turn 2 of 3

These words go together. Which word belongs with them?

mumble · whisper · mutter

Your turn 3 of 3

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

big purple arrow pointing leftstriped green arrow pointing leftstriped purple arrow pointing left

Keep practicing

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

Next lesson: Number patterns