Comparing Number

Spatial Extent Estimator—Small/Big

Sub Trajectory: Numerosity Estimation

Estimates which set is more or less if the differences are clear (e.g., one is double the other). Names a "small number" (e.g. from 1-4) for sets that cover little space and a "big number" (10-20 or more) for sets that cover a lot of space. Children classify numbers "little"/"big" idiosyncratically, and this may change with the size of the to-be-estimated objects.

Activities

You may see this:

Other Examples:

A child is shown 13 objects spread out for 1 second. When asked, "How many?", the child responds, "Thirty!"

Help your student become a(n) Spatial Extent Estimator—Small/Big

Activities ask children to make simple perceptual estimations about which set has more, including comparison of some larger numbers, but only when comparing sets (e.g., 8) covering a small area to a much larger set (e.g., 16 or more) covering a larger area. Initially these differences can be quite obvious, then decrease them as children gain competence.

The Estimating Jar [Small/Big]

Small Group