Introduction to Nonstandard Measurement for Kids: Using Paper Clips to Measure
2 minK1stMath
Summary
An introduction to nonstandard measurement: measuring the length of objects using paper clips laid end to end, with no gaps or overlaps.
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All ages
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
You can measure length by lining up units, like paper clips, end to end.
- What does it mean to measure with 'nonstandard' units?
- Why must units have no gaps or overlaps?
- What could you use besides paper clips to measure?
Quick work-a-long
Words to know: measure, length, unit
- Measure a pencil in paper clips (or another small unit).
- Measure a book and compare which is longer.

