Fall SAVY 2019: Day 1 – Measurement Matters (Grades 1/2)

Posted by hallep on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 in Grade 1, Grade 2, SAVY.

Hello SAVY parents!

Our first session of Measuring Matters was a lot of fun. Our first investigation focused on learning standard units of measure. We learned about the two systems of measurement (customary and metric) and discussed the differences between the two. We learned that while in the United States we use the customary system most other countries use the metric system.  Our first interactions with using the ruler included measuring objects around the room in centimeters. Students were able to accurately measure things such as: the length of the desk, the width of the desk, length of a paper clip, height of the desk, and length of a piece of paper.  We also worked on identifying measurements that did not fall on a whole number.  Students were introduced to decimal notations as well as fractions equivalent to those decimals.  As a group, we also discussed various scenarios to help us understand why accuracy in measurement is important. For example, if a glass was broken out of a window in your home and you provided the glass company that is going to replace it with inaccurate measurements what would happen?

After a fun lunch with our peers, we focused on linear measurement and talked about estimating and measuring length by using body parts.  We practiced gathering measurement of our torsos, heads, and legs to prepare for our investigation of the Yeti!  Together we read a story about the Yeti using measurements of a mysterious footprint discovered by the exploration team.  Working on different body parts and then combining them to construct a complete Yeti will reinforce the need for standardized units of measure.  Referencing the measurement of our own heads, feet, and legs, we practiced using proportional reasoning to help us interpret the measurement of the Yeti’s foot as compared to our own measurements. Needless to say, the Yeti was MUCH larger than we could have imagined!

I’m looking forward to next Saturday when we will practice some basic geometry and be introduced to the concept of perimeter as we construct a life-size Yeti and work to build a pen for the Yeti’s pet!

See you Saturday!

Ms. Polk