The task was deep and challenging, perhaps too challenging. Yet, as colleagues and I coached, students became more engaged. Then at the end of the lesson we were able to clear up some of the questions and create a helpful conversion chart.
Metric conversions are not simple fare for fifth graders, but the conversions match well with the standards and our current place value unit.
On Monday, Friday's class will continue the activity, and I'll introduce the activity to my homeroom class.
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| I will copy this chart separately so that each child can readily refer to it as they convert each measurement to millimeters, centimeters, and meters. |
- We'll study the chart to the right and discuss the proportional relationship between each metric unit.
- We'll talk a bit about team work including the best way to position yourself so you can hear each other and copy each other's work, how to take turns, and how to encourage each other.
- I'll print the pictures in color since I noticed the black and white pictures were more difficult to navigate and I'll recommend that students look at the pictures as they complete the first task which is to place the measurement objects in order from greatest to least.
- We'll talk about the fact that it's best if everyone uses the calculator so you can check each other's accuracy.
- Finally, I'll talk about the number line, and how it's important to identify the greatest number and least number first, then place all the numbers down paying attention to the distance each number is from each other and trying to reflect that distance accurately.
After that students will get to work, and I'll move around the room to coach each student.
This is a challenging activity, but it's an activity that will cause a lot of practice and discussion. It's also an activity that will result in number lines that will serve as good reference points as we continue our study of place value with a focus on decimals.
