Unit 3: Understanding Measurement, Length and Time In this unit students will: · Know the following customary for measuring length: inch, foot, yard · Know the following metric units for measuring length: centimeter and meter · Compare the relationship of one unit of measurement to another, within the same system · Check by measuring to determine if estimates are accurate for length · Determine the appropriate tool for measuring length; inch ruler and yardstick, centimeter ruler, and meter stick · Tell time to the nearest five minutes · Understand the relationship of hours and days · Understand the importance and usefulness of reasonable estimations · Be able to represent the length of several objects by making a line plot
Practice Measuring with a Ruler: Look closely at a ruler with your child. Notice the numbers and talk about what they represent. Use the ruler to first measure different objects around the house that are less than 12 inches. Then measure distances and objects that are greater than 12 inches. Compare measurements of the same object in centimeters and inches.
Comparing Jumps: This is a good activity for outdoors. Use chalk to mark a starting point and then measure how far different people can jump. Talk about how to measure the jumps and compare the lengths. You might ask, "How much longer is this jump than that one?" or "How much farther would this person need to jump to go the same distance as this one?"
Temperature Estimates: Have discussions with your child about the weather. This is a good opportunity to practice estimating the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit. Pose questions such as: What temperature does water freeze? What temperature is the refrigerator? What temperature does it feel outside today? What temperature would it be on a hot day at the beach?
Math and Literature: Here are some suggestions for children’s books that contain ideas about linear measurement and time. Enjoy reading them together and discuss the mathematics you find.