Let’s Measure Weight

#TheCompleteSeries5lessons

Begin to compare and use kilograms and grams when measuring various objects using a variety of equipment. Encourage your children to use their existing knowledge of place value and number lines to order different weights and read and use scales.

#Lesson1EstimatingandOrdering

Reintroduce your class to the concept of measuring weight by challenging them to order a set of unknown objects by weight. Have your class work together to use their estimating skills and mathematical vocabulary to successfully order the objects, using balance scales to check their estimates.

#Lesson2UsingGrams

Introduce your class to the standard unit of measure for weight and explore the reasons behind using a standard measure. Challenge your class to measure and order a variety of objects using digital scales, ordering the objects based on their measurements.

#Lesson3Kilograms

Investigate kilograms and their relationship to grams with your class. Challenge the children to think about the suitability of each unit of measure when measuring heavy and light objects and allow them to discuss which unit would be best to measure a variety of objects. Revisit the and = symbols when comparing various objects’ weights to 1kg.

#Lesson4ReadingScales

Take a closer look at how your class can use spring scales to measure the weight of different objects. Practise reading scales and matching them to the correct weights using the children’s knowledge and understanding of number line.

#Lesson5MeasuringAmounts

Challenge your class to use their scale-reading skills to measure given amounts of different objects. They must look carefully at their scales to determine if they need to correct their measurements or if it is close enough to the desired amount.

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Curriculum Objectives covered

• Year 2 - choose and use appropriate standard units to estimate and measure length/height in any direction (m/cm); mass (kg/g); temperature (°C); capacity (litres/ml) to the nearest appropriate unit, using rulers, scales, thermometers and measuring vessels
• Year 2 - compare and order lengths, mass, volume/capacity and record the results using >, < and =