Measure length and height from zero using whole m or cm
I can measure length and height from zero using whole metres and centimetres.
Measure length and height from zero using whole m or cm
I can measure length and height from zero using whole metres and centimetres.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- When measuring, it is more efficient to start at zero.
- The length of the object is the difference between the numbers on the ruler at the start and the end of the object.
- Measures can be given in metres or centimetres.
- Estimating helps us to decide if it is better to measure in centimetres or metres.
Keywords
Metre (m) - A metre is a standardised unit of measurement. We can abbreviate metre to m.
Centimetre (cm) - A centimetre is a standardised unit of measurement. We can abbreviate centimetre to cm.
Difference - The difference is the result of subtracting one number from another.
Common misconception
The length or height of an object is the numerical value at the end of the ruler (if not at zero).
If an object is not measured from zero, its length is the difference between the numerical value at the start and end of the object.
To help you plan your year 3 maths lesson on: Measure length and height from zero using whole m or cm, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 3 maths lesson on: Measure length and height from zero using whole m or cm, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 maths lessons from the Measuring length and recording in tables unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
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12 cm
6 cm
9 cm
11 cm


