Measurement Scavenger Hunt
Students measure everyday objects around the classroom using non-standard and standard units.
Learning objectives
- Measure length using non-standard units (paper clips, cubes)
- Measure length using standard units (centimeters, inches)
- Compare measurements and order objects by length
- Record and communicate measurement results
Step-by-step instructions
- 1
Introduce measurement
Show two objects of different lengths. Ask: Which is longer? How do you know? Introduce the idea of measuring — counting how many units fit along an object.
- 2
Measure with non-standard units
Students use linking cubes or paper clips to measure 3 objects. They line up the units end-to-end and count. Record results on the sheet.
- 3
Measure with a ruler
Introduce the ruler. Show how to line up the zero end with the start of the object. Students measure the same 3 objects in centimeters and record.
- 4
Scavenger hunt
Students find and measure 5 objects around the classroom using their ruler. They record the name of each object and its length in centimeters.
- 5
Compare and order
Students order their 5 objects from shortest to longest on their recording sheet. Share results as a class. Discuss: Did everyone get the same measurements? Why or why not?
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