Measurement
(Video)
In the United States, we use both the English and the metric systems of measurement to measure length, weight, and volume. We need to understand the relationships among the units of measure in each system.
These resources are part of KET's Measurement and Geometry collection.
This video segment originally appeared in KET’s GED Connection series.
Measurement systems are used to measure length, weight, and volume (how much something holds). The standard units of measure used in the United States are part of the English system of measurement. This English system of measurement is a place-value system based on tens. Each place-value column is ten times greater than the one on its right.
The metric system is also based on tens. The metric system was developed by scientists to make it easier to make measurement calculations using our place-value system of numbers. Metric units of measurement can be multiplied or divided by 10, 100, 1000, and so on to make larger or smaller units.
Because the metric system is used all over the world, many product labels now contain information in metric units. As time goes by, Americans will need to be comfortable using and understanding the metric system to solve problems.
Have learners look around the room to find objects that have both English and metric measurements indicated on them. Have them list the measurements, in English and in metric, on the board. Ask them if they were surprised by any findings.
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