Measurement

Measurement, the process of quantifying observations, is one of the cornerstones of science. Measurement compares nature—the unknown—to a standard unit—the known. Through such comparison, the organization of the world becomes more comprehensive. The FOSS Measurement module consists of four investigations, each designed to emphasize a particular type of metric measurement—length, mass, temperature, and volume.

FOSS expects students to:

• Understand the necessity for standard units of measurement.
• Develop an understanding and intuitive feel for the metric system.
• Measure length and distance in meters and centimeters with a meter tape.
• Measure mass in grams with a balance and mass pieces.
• Measure liquid volume and capacity of containers in liters and milliliters with 50-ml syringes and graduated cylinders.
• Measure temperature of liquids and air in degrees Celsius with a thermometer.
• Acquire the vocabulary associated with metric measurement.
• Exercise language and math skills in the context of metric measurement.
• Apply appropriate measuring skills in everyday situations.
• Develop and refine the manipulative skills required for making and using measuring tools.
• Use scientific thinking processes to conduct investigations and build explanations: observing, communicating, comparing, and organizing.