- Definition
Aggregate" simply means a mix of materials like gravel, crushed stone, and sand, which are the main ingredients in things like concrete and asphalt used for building.
The gravel and sand mixed into cement to make a sidewalk is aggregate.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Aggregate is like the mix of sand, tiny pebbles, and shells you gather in a bucket to build a strong sandcastle.
Ask your child: Look closely at the sidewalk. What tiny bits of rock and sand can you spot?
Common mix-up: Kids may think a sidewalk is just one smooth grey material. Aggregate is the mix of sand, gravel, and stone inside that makes it strong and rough.
Examples
- The crushed stone that makes up a gravel driveway or path.
- The mix of sand and stone that makes the asphalt for a road or playground surface.
- The bed of coarse gravel laid under railway tracks for support.
aggregate is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
