Length and height
A pencil is better measured in centimetres. A door is better measured in metres.
small length
larger height
Smaller objects usually use centimetres. Larger lengths often use metres.
Year 2
Choose and use appropriate standard units to estimate and measure length, height, mass, temperature and capacity
Choose sensible standard units for measuring different things and use the correct unit language.
Lesson overview
Measurement
Different measurements need different units. We measure length and height in centimetres or metres. We measure mass in grams or kilograms. We measure temperature in degrees Celsius. We measure capacity in millilitres or litres. A good estimate helps us choose the right unit before measuring.
Mass
An apple is often measured in grams. A dog is often measured in kilograms.
lighter mass
heavier mass
Grams are for lighter things. Kilograms are for heavier things.
Temperature and capacity
Temperature uses degrees Celsius. Capacity uses millilitres or litres.
how hot or cold
smaller capacity
larger capacity
Choose the unit that matches the type and size of what you are measuring.
Worked example
Choose a suitable unit to measure a child's height and a bottle of water.
length or height
capacity
- Think about what is being measured first.
- A child's height is a length, so use centimetres or metres.
- A bottle of water holds liquid, so use millilitres or litres.
- Choose the unit that best matches the size of the object or amount.
Try it
Choose the unit that best matches the object or measurement.
Question 1
Which unit is best for the length of a book?
Question 2
Which unit is best for the mass of a watermelon?
Question 3
Which unit measures temperature?
Question 4
Which unit is best for a small carton of juice?
Question 5
Which unit is best for the height of a classroom door?
Common mistakes
Watch for these when working through the lesson.
- Using a capacity unit for length or mass.
- Choosing metres for a very small object that should be measured in centimetres.
- Forgetting that temperature is measured in degrees Celsius.
Related topics
These ideas fit closely with this lesson.
- Compare and order lengths, mass, volume and capacity and record the results using >, < and =.
- Read a calendar.