Length and height - Measure length - Presentation

In a series of engaging activities, students are encouraged to explore the concepts of length and height through practical measurement exercises. The lesson's focus is on using non-standard units, such as cubes, to measure various objects, emphasising the importance of measuring in a straight line. The initial task requires students to measure the length of items within the classroom, such as a pencil, using cubes, and to record their findings in complete sentences. This hands-on approach not only helps students grasp the concept of length but also encourages them to think critically about the units of measurement they choose and the reasons why straight-line measurement is crucial.

As the lesson progresses, the students are prompted to consider alternative methods and tools for measurement. They are tasked with measuring the height of a person, Mr. Andrews, using suitable equipment like a metre stick or measuring tape, and comparing the lengths of everyday objects, such as a maths book versus a lunch box, or a table versus a blackboard. The activities are designed to foster reasoning skills, as students must decide on the most appropriate measuring tool and unit for each scenario. The lesson culminates in independent work where students apply their knowledge to measure objects with different non-standard units, ensuring they align their measurements correctly, and engage in discussions about their measurement choices and the significance of accurate, straight-line measurement.