Non-Standard Measurement Game

Non-Standard Measurement Game
In this Non-Standard Measurement Game, you are learning the fundamentals of measurement by using “units” (blocks) to determine the length of different objects. Scroll down for a detailed explanation.
 

 

How to Play the Non-Standard Measurement Game

1. Examine the Object:
   A random item will appear.
   
2. Measure with Blocks:
   Use the “+ Add Block” and “Remove” buttons to line up a row of blocks.
   Goal: The row of orange blocks must be exactly the same length as the object above it.
   
3. Count the Blocks:
   Once the row is perfectly aligned, count how many blocks you used.
   
4. Key in your Answer:
   Type that number into the “Total Blocks” box.
   
5. Submit:
   Click “Submit Count” to see if you’re right.
   

Two Error Messages (and how to fix them)
Because this game requires two steps, you have to be careful:
“The blocks don’t match the object length”: This means your physical measurement is off. Add or remove blocks until the orange row is flush with the ends of the object.
“Your count is wrong”: This means your blocks are the right length, but you miscounted! Carefully point at each block on your screen one by one: “1, 2, 3…” and type the new number.

Why This Matters
In the real world, measuring involves a tool (like a ruler) and a value (the number). By requiring you to key in the number, you are learning that “length” is simply the total number of units it takes to span a distance.

Important Rules for Measurement
To measure correctly, you have to follow the three rules of units (The game does this for you):
No Gaps: Every block must touch the one before it.
No Overlaps: Blocks shouldn’t be stacked on top of each other.
Start at the Edge: Always start your first block at the very beginning of the object you are measuring.

Why are we using blocks instead of a ruler?
Before we use inches or centimeters, we use Non-Standard Units like blocks. This teaches you that measurement is just a way to see how many “units” fit inside a space. Once you understand blocks, using a ruler becomes much easier.

This video gives a clear, step-by-step approach on how to use non-standard measurements.

• Show Video

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