How do 3-year-olds typically respond to Piaget's classic test of conservation of liquid?
A) they report that the quantity in both beakers is the same
B) they report that the original beaker holds more water
C) they report that the taller beaker holds more water
D) they report that the wider beaker holds more water

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development, 3-year-olds are in the preoperational stage, during which they tend to focus on the height or appearance of objects rather than understanding the concept of conservation. In the classic test of conservation of liquid, when water is poured from a short, wide beaker into a tall, thin one, children at this age often incorrectly report that the taller beaker holds more water, demonstrating their lack of understanding of conservation.

How Do 3-Year-Olds Typically Respond to Piaget's Classic Test of Conservation