Saying big and small — Foreign languages, 4–6 years
Learn to compare familiar things with simple size words such as big and small. Foreign languages, 4–6 years.
Words compare sizes
Words such as big and small help you compare things you can see. A big ball and a small ball may both be balls, but the size word tells someone which one you mean. The word describes the thing; it does not change the thing.
Why size words matter
Sometimes a name is not enough: there may be two boxes, two cups or two dogs. A size word gives the listener another clue, so you can choose the one you mean. It came from an everyday need to describe and compare objects quickly.
Choose the big one
Place a big teddy and a small teddy side by side. First, look at them together. Next, listen for the new-language word meaning big. Then point to the larger teddy and say the phrase for big teddy. Swap the toys, check again, and say small teddy for the other one.
Big depends on the comparison
A child may call a puppy big because it is big beside a toy, then call it small beside a grown dog. Both answers can make sense: size words often compare things in the same group. Look at what is being compared before choosing the word.
Choosing the right thing
Size words are useful when choosing clothes, finding a cup, picking a book or asking for a ball at playtime. They help when the listener cannot see exactly what you are pointing at. If sizes are very close, add a gesture or another clue.
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