Units of Measure

Prerequisite Knowledge

• multiply and divide whole numbers and those involving decimals by 10, 100 and 1000
• measure, compare, add and subtract: lengths (m/cm/mm); mass (kg/g); volume/capacity (l/ml)
• tell and write the time from an analogue clock, including using Roman numerals from I to XII, and 12-hour and 24-hour clocks

Success Criteria

• use standard units of measure and related concepts (length, area, volume/capacity, mass, time, money, etc.)
• measure line segments and angles in geometric figures, including interpreting maps and scale drawings

Key Concepts

• Understanding and apply the keywords is vital throughout this topic.
• Metric terms such as milli, cent, kilo need to be associated with their numerical equivalences.
• Relate metric conversions to multiplying and dividing by 10, 100 and 1000.
• Practical measuring activities using the appropriate equipment helps students to remember the imperial/metric conversions.

Common Misconceptions

• Students sometimes fail to recognise that imperial and metric units are two distinct sets of measurements.
• Remembering the metric/imperial conversions often prove difficult for most students.
• Students may have difficulty with the numerical conversions, especially with imperial units. Encourage the use of calculators when appropriate.