MAFS.K.MD.1.a: Express the length of an object as a whole number of length units, by laying multiple copies of a shorter object (the length unit) end to end; understand that the length measurement of an object is the number of same-size length units that span it with no gaps or overlaps. Limit to contexts where the object being measured is spanned by a whole number of length units with no gaps or overlaps.

Cognitive Complexity Level: 1-Recall

[divider] [/divider] Students are able to… 

  • Measure the length of objects using nonstandard units of measure such as paperclips, cubes, or toothpicks.
  • Students use different nonstandard units to measure the length and height of objects
  • Recognize that the size of the non-standard measuring unit affects the measurement

[divider] [/divider] Students are able to…because teachers:

  • Help students understand that the length/height of an object is defined by the number of nonstandard units (color tiles, cubes, yarn, paper clips, etc.), laid end to end, that make up the distance from one point to another
  • Integrate counting practice
  • Provide objects whose length being measured is spanned by a whole number of length units with no gaps or overlaps

 [divider] [/divider] Questions to ask students:

  • Which pencil is longer? Which pencil is shorter? How do you know?
  • Which container holds more water than the red cup?
  • What mistake did this person make when measuring? (Student shown a picture of a common mistake such as  gaps, overlaps, or misaligned endpoints)
  • Can you make a tower that is taller/shorter than 6 cubes?
  • How can you prove to your partner that your object is longer/taller?

 

[divider] [/divider] Additional Resources:

Additional in depth content knowledge

[divider] [/divider] Sample Formative Assessment Tasks:

Have the student use tiles to measure the firefly.

[divider] [/divider] Resources/Tasks to Support Your Child at Home:

  • Using non-standard objects such as paper clips, mini marshmallows, cheerios, coins or goldfish crackers to measure the length or height of objects in your household.
  • Have your child describe which object it took more of to cover the length or height.

YouTube Video: Using Paperclips to Measure