In the U.S. we use a weird metric system--'US Standard Units'. I wonder if we will ever convert to the metric system?
Anyway, here are some ideas you can do with children to have fun with distance.
- See how far you can throw a ball. If you do it three times, do they all go the same distance?
- How far you can run, walk, or cartwheel in 30 seconds--then measure the distance (Alternately you can pick a certain distance and time how long it takes to walk, run, or crawl that distance.) You could have awards based on the most interesting way to go a certain distance (hopping on one foot backwards?)
- On a road trip, have the kids find the mile markers. Can they find each one? (I think they are supposed to be marked each mile, but I'm not convinced)
- If you go on a flight, find the average speed your plane will have to fly to get to your destination? I know that may be a little advanced for most elementary students, but kids love a challenge, right?!
Do you ever teach distance in your class? What is your favorite way to teach it?
Join me on Thursday for MaTh activity Thursday and 'balancing'.
