It is important to find real reasons for adults to measure. Below are three examples of creating real opportunities for measurement in the classroom.

1. Make cards for a holiday. Give the following directions for making the card: Measure 5" tall and 8" wide. Cut. Fold in half so the card is 4" wide. Use a marker to measure a border 1/2 inch in from the edge.
   
   
2. Bring in a scale and work with a large group. Ask student so estimate the weight of something, then weigh it together. (As students become more comfortable, they may do the weighing for the group.) Do this for several items. Have different items for students to work on in pair or individually. This is a good time to introduce the idea of volume. Let them see how an ounce of metal takes up less space than an ounce of packing peanuts or feathers or cotton balls. Bring in different types of scales if possible (a bathroom scale, a postage scale, etc.).
   
   
3. Have students follow a recipe in class. Having students cook and share food in class helps them practice measurement and is a great retention tool.