Metric Matching Activity
Students will use their knowledge of the metric system to sort matching cards to accurately display conversions.
Essential Question
How do we convert units within the Metric System?
Grade(s):
- 5
- 6
Subject(s):
Recommended Technology:
Other Instructional Materials or Notes:
Note: You may wish to print the matching cards out on cardstock and laminate in order to reuse in the following years.
Lesson Progression
Using the Matching Cards:
1) Put students into groups of 2-3
2) Give each group 21 cards (7 sets of 3). Each set of 3 has equivalent measurements, in meter, centimeter, and millimeter form, but the measurements are not labeled with the units.
3) Students set up "Meter," "Centimeter," and "Millimeter," headings, and then determine which measurements to put in which categories, so that the measurements in each column are equivalent. For example, cards 7, 700, and 7,000 would be placed under meter, centimeter, and millimeter, respectively.
There are several similar numbers, so students can’t just place the numbers according to the initial digit.
Once students finish, you can have them add another column, like dm and convert to that unit.
Teacher Notes
differentiation: Provide students with a "cheat sheet" of conversion examples to aid in their mental math conversions while playing the matching card game.
extension: Have students research opportunities when using the Metric System is useful in the real world.
Metric Matching Cards
Print and cut for student use. You may wish to laminate for repeated use in following years.
View ResourceStandards
Assessments
Make informal assessments while checking the accuracy of student matching while playing the game.