CCSS.Math.Content.4.MD.A.1
The standard
Know relative sizes of measurement units within one system of units including km, m, cm; kg, g; lb, oz.; l, ml; hr, min, sec. Within a single system of measurement, express measurements in a larger unit in terms of a smaller unit. Record measurement equivalents in a two column table.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Measurement and Data
What this standard means
Students need to know common units in one measurement system and convert from larger units to smaller units. They should use facts like 1 meter equals 100 centimeters, 1 hour equals 60 minutes, and 1 pound equals 16 ounces. They also need to organize equivalent measures in a two-column table.
Mastery looks like choosing the correct conversion fact, multiplying accurately, and labeling both units. Students often mix systems, such as meters and inches, or divide when they should multiply. They may also forget that the table must show equal amounts, not just a counting pattern.
Ways to teach it
- Have students measure classroom objects in meters, then convert each length to centimeters on a recording sheet.
- Ask students to explain why 3 feet equals 36 inches using a drawing, number line, or equation.
- Give five quick conversions, such as 4 kg to grams and 2 hours to minutes, with units required.
- Use a grocery label, sports distance, or recipe amount and ask students to convert it to a smaller unit.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.4.MD.A.1
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.4.MD.A
Solve problems involving measurement and conversion of measurements from a larger unit to a smaller unit.
- CCSS.Math.Content.3.MD.A.2
Measure and estimate liquid volumes and masses of objects using standard units of grams (g), kilograms (kg), and liters (l). Add, subtract, multiply, or divide ...
- CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.A.1
Convert among different-sized standard measurement units within a given measurement system (e.g., convert 5 cm to 0.05 m), and use these conversions in solving ...
- CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.A
Convert like measurement units within a given measurement system.