All Activities
Maths

Measure with Objects

Overview

Children use objects to measure and compare length.

Learning Objective
Children measure length using non-standard units.

Resources needed

  • Small identical objects (sticks, blocks)
  • String or paper

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Choose something to measure (e.g. a table or a person).
  2. 2 Place objects end to end along the length.
  3. 3 Count how many objects are used.
  4. 4 Repeat using different objects.
  5. 5 Compare results.
  6. 6 Ask: 'Why are the numbers different?'
  7. 7 Discuss which objects are longer or shorter.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Measure different items
  • Estimate before measuring
  • Compare two lengths
More information

Use body language and pointing to reinforce 'longer' and 'shorter'.

Provide pre-cut string the same length as the object to make the measurement concrete.

Do children understand why different units give different numbers? Can they place units without gaps or overlaps?

Cut sticks or fold strips of paper to a consistent length as a non-standard unit. No rulers, blocks, or printed resources needed.

Children often leave gaps between measuring units or allow them to overlap, leading to inaccurate counts. Model placing units carefully end to end and let children practise before measuring independently.

Activity details
Early Years Medium 20–30 minutes 5 minutes prep Pairs, Small Group Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Measuring Length