Virginia SOL 1.MG.1.b
The Standard
Measure the length, weight, or volume of the same object or container with two different units and describe how and why the measurements differ.
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will reason mathematically using nonstandard units to measure and compare objects by length, weight, and volume.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students measure one object or container twice with two different nonstandard units. They compare the results and connect the different counts to the size of each unit.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students use each unit consistently and record a reasonable count. They explain that smaller units require more units, while larger units require fewer, even though the object stays the same.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think a larger count means the object became longer, heavier, or fuller. They may leave gaps, overlap units, or mix unit sizes. Some expect different units to produce the same number.
How to Assess It
- Give each student one book, linking cubes, and paper clips. Have students measure its length with both units, record both counts, and explain why the counts differ.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Measure one pencil with linking cubes and paper clips, then compare the counts and unit sizes.
Discuss: Maya used 10 small cups and 5 large cups to fill one pitcher; why are the numbers different?
Play Measurement Match by pairing picture cards that show the same object measured with different unit sizes.
Fill one lunch container with tablespoons, then with scoops, and explain which tool would be faster for kitchen work.
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Related Standards
- 4.MG.1.c
Compare estimates of length, weight/mass, or liquid volume with the actual measurements.
- 1.MG.1.a.i
lengths of two objects (units laid end to end with no gaps or overlaps) and compare the measurements using the terms longer/shorter, taller/shorter, or the same...
- 3.MG.1.c
Compare estimates of length, weight/mass, or liquid volume with the actual measurements.
- 1.MG.1.a.ii
weights of two objects (using a balance scale or a pan scale) and compare the measurements using the terms lighter, heavier, or the same as; and
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