How-to blog

How to Teach Year 1 Measurement, Time and Length in a Fun Way

Measurement is easier for Year 1 students when it is linked to objects they already know, such as pencils, books, toys and daily routines.

Make the learning visible

Begin with comparison words such as longer, shorter, heavier and lighter. Children can compare classroom objects before they use any formal measurement tools.

For time, use familiar daily events such as breakfast, school, bedtime and routines. This makes the idea of sequencing and duration much easier to understand.

A simple routine is to compare, estimate and then check. That teaches children to reason rather than simply guess.

Related Year 1 worksheets

Useful resource

Paperback activity guide

Keep a ready-made bank of lesson starters and follow-up questions on hand.

View paperback copy