Measure length using objects

I can measure length, including height, by using different objects and explain how to do this accurately.

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Year 1

Measure length using objects

I can measure length, including height, by using different objects and explain how to do this accurately.

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Share activities with pupils

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Lesson details

Key learning points

Lengths and heights can be measured using objects such as blocks or dominoes.
When you measure accurately, the objects you use to measure should be the same size.
When you measure accurately, there should be no gaps between your objects.
When you measure accurately, the objects should be in a straight line from one end to the other.

Keywords

Measure - To find a number that shows the size or amount of something.
Accurately - Working carefully so that there are no mistakes.

Common misconception

Children may not use objects to measure accurately, for example leaving gaps between the objects. They may also miscount the objects.

Encourage children to build a straight line of objects with no gaps first, then place the object they want to measure along the line. Encourage them to touch each object as they count.

This lesson uses dominoes, sharpeners, blocks and pens as units of measure. Handspans and footprints have not been included as they cannot be seen after measuring and can be more difficult for the children to count. You may include these, or other units, if you feel it would benefit the children.