Minds On

Things we can measure

There are many different things that we can measure about objects.

Let’s learn about them by exploring the following images.

Examine the following image of an ice cream cone.

There is a picture of a hand holding an ice cream cone with two scoops of ice cream with two drips running down the cone.

Brainstorm

Brainstorm

What are some things we can measure about the ice cream cone?

Press ‘Hint’ to access a list of things that could be measured.

We can measure:

  • how tall the ice cream cone is
  • how much of the person’s hand can wrap around the cone
  • how much heavier the cone would feel if another scoop was added
  • how much ice cream can fit inside the cone itself

Action

Let’s measure!

We can use everyday items to help us measure how long, wide or tall different objects are.

Let’s use paper clips to measure some different objects.

It’s important to make sure the paper clips we use to measure are all the same size!

How many paper clips?

Examine the following images. How many paper clips long are each item?

Complete the Measuing Items with a Paper Clip chart in your notebook or using the following fillable and printable document. If you would like, you can use speech-to-text or audio recording tools to record your thoughts.

Grade 1 Math Spatial Sense – Measuring Items with a Paper Clip

Press the Activity button to access Measuring Items with a Paper Clip.

Activity (Open PDF in a new tab)

Press ‘Answer’ to find out how many paper clips long each item was.

  • The spoon is 7 paper clips long.
  • The safety pin is 2 paper clips long.
  • The pencil is 9 paper clips long.
  • The comb is 6 paper clips long.

Measuring with blocks

Let’s measure with blocks!

How many blocks tall is each of the items?

Count the number of blocks beside each item.

For each sentence, select the missing word from the drop-down menu.

Brainstorm

Brainstorm

Can you think of any other everyday items that could be used to measure how long, wide or tall other objects are?

Consolidation

Measuring exploration

Let’s measure some everyday objects!

Step 1: Choose your measuring tool

Choose two items from the following list, or choose another small object to use as your measuring tool:

  • blocks
  • paper clips
  • erasers
  • toothpicks

Whatever item you choose, make sure they are all the same size!

Step 2 – Choose objects to measure

Choose an object that you can measure how long, wide or how tall it is.

Some examples are:

A marker, a book, a cup, and a jar all in a row.

Time to share!

Using pictures, drawings, words, or another method of your choice, share:

  • the items you used as a measuring tool
  • the object that you measured
  • how many small items you needed to measure your object

If possible, share your work with a partner.

Reflection

How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity? Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

I feel...

Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.