Living vs. Non-Living Sorter
Source: Stemoto Original
Examine physical tokens (a wooden tree, a plastic car, a toy dog) and drop them down a physical chute. Press button A for Living or B for Non-Living on the micro:bit — it flashes a happy face for correct sorting and an X for wrong answers.
Categorisation
Props & Materials Required
- •Custom laser-cut sorting chute
- •micro:bit
- •Physical tokens or small toys (tree, car, dog, rock, bird, phone, flower, ball)
- •Two collection bins labeled 'Living' and 'Non-Living'
Step-by-Step Instructions
Set Up the Sorter
Place the laser-cut sorting chute on a table with two collection bins at the bottom — one labeled 'Living,' one labeled 'Non-Living.'
Program the Checker
In MakeCode, create a list of correct answers. Program: when Button A is pressed → check if the current token is Living → show checkmark or X. When Button B → check if Non-Living.
Examine Each Token
Pick up a token (e.g., a toy dog). Ask: Does it breathe? Does it grow? Does it need food? Based on the answers, decide: Living or Non-Living?
Sort and Check
Press Button A (Living) or Button B (Non-Living) on the micro:bit. If correct, the micro:bit shows a happy face and the child drops the token down the chute into the right bin!
Tricky Tokens
Add challenging items: a dried leaf (was living, now non-living?), a seed (it's alive but doesn't move!), a robot toy (it moves but isn't alive!). These spark great discussions about the characteristics of life.
Why It Works & Notes
Hands-on categorization replaces rote textbook lists. Instead of reading a chart, children physically handle objects, make decisions, and receive instant feedback — turning classification into a game rather than a memorization exercise.
NEP Alignment: Hands-on categorization and data classification, replacing rote textbook lists. Curriculum Mapping: EVS (Living vs. Non-Living Things). Target Level: Class 2.