intro:
Understanding that things can be measured is an important part of early childhood. It is not important for young children to understand units of measure like inches or pounds. It is only important that they understand that items can be measured. This activity will help them with that concept.
set up ideas:
Choose a location with ample space to place the tape. Masking tape and duct tape come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you may wish to go for something extra fun!
Understanding that things can be measured is an important part of early childhood. It is not important for young children to understand units of measure like inches or pounds. It is only important that they understand that items can be measured. This activity will help them with that concept.
set up ideas:
Choose a location with ample space to place the tape. Masking tape and duct tape come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you may wish to go for something extra fun!
let's get started
For this activity, you'll need plenty of floor space available. You'll also need to gather masking tape or duct tape that will stick to the floor or carpet, as well as blocks that can be used for measuring items. Wooden blocks work very well.
step 1
Tape a straight line onto the floor. Five feet is usually a good length, but you may adjust the size according to your group.
Tape a straight line onto the floor. Five feet is usually a good length, but you may adjust the size according to your group.
step 2
Place blocks all of the same size all along the line of tape from one to the other.
Place blocks all of the same size all along the line of tape from one to the other.
step 3
Count how many blocks it took to measure the tape.
Count how many blocks it took to measure the tape.
step 4
Now you can confidently say that the tape is X blocks long. Discuss what other forms of measurement there are.
Now you can confidently say that the tape is X blocks long. Discuss what other forms of measurement there are.
Measuring and understanding measurements is important in nearly every aspect of life. Discuss some ways that people use measurements every day. Some potential topics of discussion include cooking, driving and decorating.
Tips and TricksIf you have a large group of children, you may wish to divide them into smaller groups, each with their own length of tape. Have the groups compare their results with one another.
Follow up ActivityWhat other objects can be used to measure? Try using hands, feet, pencils or even rulers.