Kindergarten: Measuring in Mathematics

During our recent unit ‘What needs to be measured determines the unit of measurement’, the students spent some time outdoors investigating the question ‘Is it true that length remains unchanged whether in a straight or curved line?’ They began by drawing a straight line and a curved line on the ground using chalk. The students measured these lines by walking along them, counting how many footprints long. They considered the following questions: How can we make sure we measure our footsteps accurately? How can we make sure it is a fair measure? The students discovered quickly that their footsteps needed to be aligned one in front of the other, with no overlapping or leaving gaps between the steps. They were surprised to find that the curved line was actually longer than the straight line, even though both lines started and finished at the same points. This was a wonderful investigation which encouraged the students to work cooperatively together to solve a mathematical problem. It was a bonus to get in some exercise, fresh air and sunshine while learning at the same time.

Brooke Napper, Rebecca Saba and Vicki Spillane 
Kindergarten Teachers