Linear Measurement

Today we started out measuring distance with "giant steps." Teams of children measured how many "giant steps" it took to get from one end of the hallway to the other. As we organized our data on a line plot, we realized that although we were measuring the same amount of space, our numbers were very different. Through this experience and reading the story "How Big is a Foot?" we began to understand the importance of standard measurement.

Today we practiced measuring things to the nearest inch. Tomorrow we will expand our knowledge to the nearest 1/2 inch and 1/4 inch. It's important to remember to line the measuring tool up carefully with the edge of what you're measuring. We will also practice identifying those small lines that indicate fractions of an inch. As our unit continues we will investigate and practice with other units of measure.

The more experience with measurement that children get at school and at home, the better. Encourage your child to estimate and measure distances. Typical questions that might come up at home include these:

How far is it across our kitchen table - and can we really reach that far?
How many children can sit comfortably on our couch? How many adults?
Will that extra bookcase really fit in the kids' bedroom?

These are good questions, and they're also very practical ones! Measurement questions come up a lot in our home lives, and it's exciting for children to be involved with real-world issues.

Here's how you can help during this unit:

Listen to your child's strategies for measuring.

Involve your child in your own measurement activities - hobbies like sewing or carpentry are a natural for this.

Work together on the measurement activities your child brings home.

Happy measuring!