Learn about what is length in math, and how it is different from width with this free printable What Is Longer worksheet. Measure and compare the lengths of everyday objects with a hands-on STEM project for preschoolers and elementary-age kiddos. Pair it with one or more of these fun STEM activities too!
WHAT IS LONGER STEM PROJECT
WHAT IS LENGTH?
Length is the measurement of the distance between two endpoints or how long something is. It usually refers to the most extended area or distance.
LENGTH Vs. WIDTH
What is the difference between length and width? Width is measured from side to side and describes how wide something is. It is usually the widest or shortest distance.
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NON-STANDARD MEASUREMENT
Younger kiddos often start with non-standard measurement activities to get accustomed to measuring items before being introduced to rulers or measuring tapes. It’s also an excellent hands-on and playful math activity!
Non-standard measurement is using a uniform group of objects to measure something. Such as using 2×2 LEGO (or larger Duplo as shown below) to measure the length or height of an object.
Each of the bricks is the same size, so it accurately assesses the length or height from one object to the next. You can measure a shoe, a piece of paper, anything… grab a basket of items and try it!
WHAT IS LONGER
Use our free printable length activity sheet (free download below) to learn about length. Students will use a ruler or measuring tape to determine the size of everyday objects and compare them to find out which is longer.
Alternatively, kids can “measure” the two items against one another!
Suggestion: Before measuring, get kids to estimate which objects they think are longer, and what the length will be. At the end of the activity, compare the measurements to their estimations. How close were they?
Don’t focus too much on whether kids are measuring the “length” or “width” or “height” of the object, as long as they are consistent with measuring the side with the biggest distance.
Extension #1: Have the kiddos choose their own items to compare!
Extension #2: Give it a winter or holiday theme with the items you choose to measure to reinforce learning.
CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE PRINTABLE STEM PROJECT!
EXTEND THE LEARNING
We love helping our kiddos learn in a multi-sensory way with one of these fun, hands-on activities below. See our list of preschool math activities.
Practice measuring your hands and feet using simple cube blocks.
Try this fun Fall measuring activity with pumpkins. Pumpkin math worksheet included.
Use candy hearts for measuring math activity for Valentine’s Day.
Go on a math measurement scavenger hunt to measure items!
Grab these free fantastic math worksheets for kids.
Click on the image below or on the link for tons more awesome STEM projects for kids.
