This unit uses multiple materials and models to help students explore measurement. Students use objects, pictures, and symbols. Connections to children's literature, when appropriate, are incorporated into lessons. Students engage in measurement activities involving length, area, volume, time, and weight. Students practice measuring using standard and nonstandard units.
The sequence of lessons in this unit builds skills required for understanding the attributes of measurement as well as the units, systems, and processes of measurement. Early learners need multiple experiences with recognizing the measurable attributes of objects. Students at the upper end of this grade band need many opportunities to select and compare appropriate units for the attributes being measured.
Individual Lessons
Lesson 1 - The Length of My Feet
This lesson focuses students’ attention on the attributes of length and develops their knowledge of and skill in using nonstandard units of measurement. It provides practice with and remediation of the measurable attributes of length.
Lesson 2 - The Area of Things ...
Students have opportunities to recognize and use the attributes of length and area using non-standard units.
Lesson 3 - Drop by Drop
In this lesson, students recognize and use the attributes of volume. They engage in activities that promote understanding of how to measure volume using standard units.
Lesson 4 - Grouchy Lessons of Time
This lesson provides an introduction to and practice with the concept of time. The activities focus students’ attention on the attributes of time and enables students at varying levels to develop knowledge and skills in using time.
Lesson 5 - The Weight of Things
This lesson introduces and provides practice with the measurable attributes of weight. It also gives an opportunity to assess student knowledge of and skill in using measurement of mass. This learning experience focuses students’ attention on the attributes of weight using hands-on activities and active learning.
