How heavy, how far, how tall, how much?

We've started a new inquiry about measurement. The children started comparing their heights, so we created a growth chart to represent their findings.

Using a variety of tools, the children have been exploring many different forms of measurement in addition to height. Owen, Patrick, and a few other children are very interested in the trundle wheel, used to measure distance.

"Look, I went all the way to the end of the hall. I hear clicks. I think they happen when
that little thing rubs against the metal part." -Owen

"If I run out, I can put another stick. Line them up, like this." -Jaxin
"Let's measure the carpet. Line it up at the edge, guys!" -Keegan
"I counted them to measure." -Ayden

We've been exploring capacity and volume at the water table and the sand box. Yesterday we used the skills in a practical context to make juice. We then connected our learning to our inquiry about ice by making juice pops.

"Measure 3 cans of water. You have to go right to the top." -Sarah

The weighing centre has been set up to explore mass and weight. The children use found objects and some of our "Beautiful Stuff" we collected to play with the scales.

"When it goes down, it's heavier. The big rocks weighs more than the small rock." - Aidan
"I add to this one to make it heavier." -Gavin
"Now it's balanced!" -Makayla

As our inquiry into measurement continues, we will be exploring ways to use our bodies to measure, such as foot prints and hand spans.

Parents can help support this inquiry at home by inviting children to help in the kitchen, or to experiment with the bathroom scale. Ask: "Which is bigger? Heavier? Longer? How do you know?"