- Definition
To "compose" means to put smaller pieces together to make a bigger one, like using building blocks to create a tower.
Arranging different coloured paper shapes on a page to make a picture of a house is composing.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Composing is like putting different Lego blocks together to build a new creation.
Ask your child: How can you arrange these pieces to make a picture?
Common mix-up: Kids might think composing is just piling things together. The key idea is thoughtfully arranging the parts to create a whole new thing.
Examples
- Putting two triangles together to compose a square.
- Arranging slices of fruit on a plate to compose a smiley face.
compose is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
+7 more mentions across the curriculum
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 ↗
