Length and height - Comparing height - Planning

In the first week of Spring term for Year 1, the lesson plan focuses on comparing lengths and heights, an essential part of the National Curriculum objectives. The key vocabulary includes terms such as 'tall', 'taller', 'tallest', 'short', 'shorter', 'shortest', 'height', 'compare', and 'accurate'. These words are fundamental for children to describe and solve practical problems related to physical dimensions. The lesson begins with a starter that assesses children's prior knowledge, asking them what height is, the meaning of comparison, and how they might compare heights using appropriate vocabulary. The class then observes pictures of puppies and aliens to practice comparing heights, discussing the importance of alignment for accuracy.

Through a series of activities, children engage in practical exercises where they compare their height with that of their peers, looking for someone taller or shorter and discussing their findings. They are also encouraged to reason about comparisons, such as determining if two animals are the same height and understanding the need for accuracy when measuring. In another practical activity, children explore their environment to find objects shorter, taller, or of the same height as themselves, which helps them understand the concepts of measurement and comparison. The lesson concludes with a plenary session where key questions are asked to reinforce learning, and common misconceptions are addressed. The lesson structure supports different learning levels, from those working towards expectations to those who are ready to explore these concepts at greater depth.