Module 5 Measuring
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Can I explain what each division means on a numbered or partly numbered line and use this information to read a scale to the nearest division or half-division?

Example review questions

  • Can you use a ruler to measure and draw lines that are
    8.5 cm, 13½ cm and 19.5 cm long?
  • Can you read this scale to the nearest half-division?
    A weighing scale with two items on it. The scale is pointing to just under 25.
  • What measurement is shown on the scales?
    A weighing scale showing three point five kg.
  • How much liquid is in this jug?
    A measuring jug with 500ml of liquid in it.

Teaching guidance

This teaching guidance document suggests some of the key vocabulary, models, images and practical equipment that children should experience and be able to use. It also includes some teaching tips to provide a few starting points for ways of supporting children with this area of mathematics.

DOC file Can I explain what each division means on a numbered or partly numbered line and use this information to read a scale to the nearest division or half-division? - teaching guidance | 282KB new window

Consolidation and practice

These resources are to support children in guided or independent work. Roll over the highlighted resources for a description.

PDF file How to use measuring scales ITP | 151KB new window

SWF file Measuring scales ITP | 67KB new window

PDF file How to use thermometer ITP | 88KB new window

SWF file Thermometer ITP | 58KB new window

PDF file How to use measuring cylinder ITP | 171KB new window

SWF file Measuring cylinder ITP | 50KB new window

DOC file Measuring using half-centimetres pupil activity | 26KB new window

DOC file Using the measuring cylinder ITP teaching activity | 182KB new window

Measuring scales

itp_measuring_scales.png

This interactive teaching program (ITP) is an ICT-based tool to support the exploration of number, measures and problem solving. Measuring scales ITP allows the child or teacher to add different masses of 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 units to a scale pan. The scale intervals can be changed to challenge children to interpret different scales.

Thermometer

itp_thermometer.png

This interactive teaching program (ITP) is an ICT-based tool to support the exploration of number and measures. Thermometer ITP allows the child or teacher to display a thermometer whose scale, range and interval markers can be changed. It can be used to develop children's understanding of scales and negative numbers in the context of temperature.

Measuring cylinder

itp_measuring_cylinder.png

This interactive teaching program (ITP) is an ICT-based tool to support the exploration of number, measures and problem solving. Measuring cylinder ITP allows the child or teacher to simulate varying intervals on a scale, pouring liquid into the cylinder and interpreting the scale. The ITP can be used to explore and consolidate the interpretation and reading of scales, mental calculation strategies and methods of recording.

Opportunities to use and apply

Possible contexts include:

  • length, e.g. Use a tape measure, measuring to the nearest half-centimetre, to find out whose sunflower has grown the tallest.
  • mass, e.g. Weigh a set of parcels, to the nearest 100 g. Work out postage costs if each 100 g costs 20p.
  • capacity, e.g. Sort a set of containers of varying sizes and shapes by estimating their capacity, then measure to see whether the order was correct.
  • temperature, e.g. Use a thermometer to keep a record of temperatures over a period of a few days. Which is the hottest day? Which is the coldest? What is the difference between the hottest and the coldest?
 

Confirming learning

Ask probing questions such as:

  • What tips would you give to someone who is learning how to read a measurement, using a weighing scale, a ruler, a measuring jug? How do you know what the unlabelled marks mean?
  • Is it easier to measure a line accurately with a ruler that is divided into cm or into half-cm? Explain your answer.
  • Draw on this scale where the dial would go for a weight of 45 g. How do you know?
    A weighing scale without a pointer.