Knowledge Classification Box

Classification Box - 8 categories, 10 objects per category

The ability to categorize is foundational for learning. It helps us process, organize, remember and integrate new information. Knowledge classification box pretty much says it all for this item. Sort the picture tiles into categories and drop them into the box next to their matching picture on the picture strip.

All pieces are made from wood. The box measures approximately 11 1/8" L x 4" H x 3 7/8" W. The lid is removable and sits on top of the box. It does not snap shut or lock, but it is constructed so that it won't just slide off. The lid has 10 slots for the picture tiles and a long groove that runs the length of the lid for the strip to sit in (see image above). There are 10 compartments inside the box, each slot having its own compartment.

Each strip has 10 items, each item lines up with one slot. There are eight different strips, one category per strip, and the categories are numbers, shapes, clothes, vehicles, fruits, vegetables, office supplies and animals. For each item on the strip there is one matching picture tile. On the back of each tile is written the name of the object and some Chinese writing that I can't read.

Eight different category strips.

Place one picture strip on the box lid and put each matching tile into the slot in front of its picture.

Try this:

• Sort out the 10 picture tiles for a strip before presenting it for less confusion over unrelated tiles.
• Skip the box, just use the strips and line the matching tiles up under it.
• Orient the box in the direction that is easiest for the individual and then turn the box a little as you go until it is in a more challenging orientation. I do this without the kids knowing. 
• Place a strip on the box and the tiles nearby. Turn the picture tiles into different orientations so that the individual will have to recognize them upside down, east-west, etc. Ask them to turn each tile in-hand to orient it upright before dropping it into the box.
• Place the tiles face up on the table. Give the individual a category but don't show them the strip. Ask them to pick out all of that category. When they think they have them all, present the strip so they can check their work against it. Use fewer tiles is 80 tiles is too many to look over, just make sure you have all 10 for the category you are working on.
• Place all the tiles face up on the table. Skip the strips. Come up with a category other than the ones on the strips, for instance things with four legs, things with purple, things with wheels or things you can eat. Clear away as many as you can for each category. Keep thinking of categories until they are all cleared off the table.
• Present the box with a strip. Ask the individual to find and drop the tiles into box, in order, starting at the far left and working to the right.
• Work on visual discrimination, figure ground, visual form constancy, manual dexterity, reaching, hand orientation, in-hand manipulation, categorizing, process skills, executive functioning skills, play and leisure exploration and participation
  

In the box: Wooden box, 8 classification strips, 80 picture tiles

 

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