- Definition
A Carroll diagram is a chart that sorts things into groups based on whether they have two different features, like if an animal is a mammal and if it can fly. You put things in boxes depending on if they have both features, one feature, or neither.
On a chart sorting shapes by 'red' and 'triangle,' a blue triangle goes in the 'not red' and 'triangle' box.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: A Carroll diagram is like sorting snacks onto a plate with four sections based on two rules, like 'is it crunchy?' and 'is it sweet?'.
Ask your child: Where would you put a red circle on this chart?
Common mix-up: Kids may only sort by one rule, ignoring the other. A Carroll diagram requires checking both the side rule and the top rule for every single item.
Examples
- Sorting numbers 1-10: the number 9 would go in the box for 'odd' and 'multiple of 3'.
- Sorting classmates' names: 'Anna' could go in the '4 letters' and 'starts with a vowel' box.
Carroll diagram 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 ↗
