FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS

Measure and refresh your child’s measurement skills this summer by requesting his/her help around the house. Something always needs to be measured and your young person can show you what he/she knows with a little coaxing. Be sure to ask for the measurement in both standard and metric units. Also, ask him/her to choose the appropriate measurement tool and explain to you why the tape measure is better in this instance than the meter stick, etc. Praise, encouragement, and guidance are the supports your child needs to participate in more learning activities throughout the summer. Listed below are a few example situations that provide opportunities for your middle school child to help around the house while refreshing measurement skills.

A tablecloth needs to be purchased for the kitchen table. Please measure the width and length, so the correct size is bought. When measuring for a tablecloth, am I thinking about area or perimeter? (area)

I need to attach some decorative trim around the front window. How much will I need? How did you arrive at that answer? (perimeter)

We’ll need two chocolate cakes when our relatives visit this weekend. Please double the amounts of all ingredients.

When we make the iced tea, which container should we use? What size is that? How many cups will it hold?

How many ounces are in three pounds of butter?

Measurement opportunities around the house are endless. Your child will practice helping others and recall needed mathematical skills when engaged in measuring objects of everyday life.