Living and Non-Living Things Sorting Printable Activity

Description

This fun and interactive sorting activity helps children understand the difference between living and non-living things. Children will cut out the picture cards and sort them into the correct category by placing each item on either the Living Things or Non-Living Things sorting mat.

This hands-on activity encourages observation, classification, and critical thinking while engagingly reinforcing basic science concepts.

Materials Needed

• Printed worksheet pages
• Child-safe scissors
• Glue stick (optional)
• Laminator and Velcro dots (optional for reusable activities)
• Storage envelope or zip-lock bag for picture cards

Preparation

1. Download and print the worksheet pages.
2. Carefully cut out each picture card along the dashed lines.
3. Place the Living Things and Non-Living.
4. Things are sorted on a flat surface.
5. Mix all the picture cards before beginning the activity.

How to Play

Option 1: Basic Sorting

• Pick one picture card at a time.
• Look carefully at the object shown.
• Decide whether it is a living or non-living thing.
• Place the card on the correct sorting mat.
• Continue until all the cards have been sorted.

Option 2: Explain Your Choice

• Sort each picture into the correct category.
• Explain why you placed it there.
• Talk about the characteristics of living things, such as growing, breathing, moving, and needing food and water.

Option 3: Timed Sorting Challenge

• Mix all the picture cards.
• Set a timer.
• Challenge children to sort all the cards correctly before the timer ends.

Option 4: Category Check

• After sorting, review each card together.
• Discuss any mistakes and move misplaced cards to the correct category.
• Encourage children to describe one feature of each living and non-living thing.

Learning Objectives

Children will:

• Identify living and non-living things.
• Understand the basic characteristics of living organisms.
• Develop classification and sorting skills.
• Improve observation and critical-thinking abilities.
• Strengthen fine motor skills through cutting and handling picture cards.
• Build vocabulary related to science concepts.
• Increase concentration and attention to detail.

Skills Developed

• Classification Skills
• Observation Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Science Vocabulary
• Visual Discrimination
• Fine Motor Development
• Logical Thinking
• Hand-Eye Coordination

Teaching Tips

• Introduce the characteristics of living and non-living things before starting.
• Ask questions such as, “Does it grow?” or “Does it need food and water?”
• Encourage children to explain their choices.
• Reinforce the correct answers through discussion.
• Allow children to work independently or with a partner.

Reusable Activity Idea

For long-term classroom or homeschool use:

• Print on cardstock.
• Laminate the sorting mats and picture cards.
• Attach Velcro dots to the backs of the picture cards.
• Store all pieces in a labeled envelope or zip-lock bag for repeated practice.

Included in This Resource

✔ Living Things Sorting Mat

✔ Non-Living Things Sorting Mat

✔ Cut-and-Sort Picture Cards

✔ Living vs. Non-Living Classification Activity

✔ Science Vocabulary Practice

✔ Fine Motor Skills Development Activity

Recommended Age Group

• Preschool (Ages 3–5)
• Kindergarten (Ages 4–6)
• Grade 1 (Ages 5–7)
• Special Education and Early Intervention Programs