Metric Estimation Game (SP 1336)

The Metric Estimation Game is designed to develop and reinforce estimation skills, select and use appropriate measurement tools, and determine measurement unit quantity, scale, and magnitude

• Measure the diameter, circumference, and perimeter of objects.
• Use basic math formulas to calculate the area of a square and the volume of a cube.
• Use three SI prefixes: milli, centi, and kilo.
• Apply measurement writing style requirements for unit symbols.

• Projector and computer.
• Chalk board and chalk, dry erase board and markers, or flip chart paper.
• Clock or timing device displaying seconds.
• Freezer storage bags or large manila envelopes.
• Scissors and wax pencils.
• Tent cards, index cards, and printer paper.
• Background information for the facilitator. 

• Some items selected for the game may be sharp or heavy.
• As a precaution, participants must be seated, to avoid dropping and injuring themselves or property.
• Hold one game item at a time. Always use two hands when holding a heavy item.
• Do not balance multiple heavy items in participants hands.
• Do not consume water bottle contents.
• Consider the safety of each item. For example, a spoon may be preferred over a fork or other utensil.
• Use caution when handling paper edges and scissors to prevent injury. Keep fingers clear of cutting areas.

One recommended education best practice is to teach the SI by using the SI. Participants must build proficiency and confidence working with metric measurements before they can effectively make comparisons with other measurement systems. Use the Top 10 Tips for Teaching the Metric System.

• Prepare students for the activity by introducing and reviewing the background information prior to gameplay.
• Teach the SI using an interdisciplinary approach to avoid isolating SI measurements within the math and science curriculum.
• Customize the game for your classroom using ideas within the Extension section. Challenge participants to bring in an item from home to add to the game
• Use SI only, single-system measurement tools whenever possible. Using dual-unit measuring equipment can confuse learners because it is easy to select and use the non-SI scale.
• Focus on only one measurement parameter in a game session, such as mass, length, or volume.
• Develop an estimation or measurement station where participants measure items that periodically change. Measure each sample item and write the measurement on the back of the object using a note card or a piece of masking tape. Participants will have the opportunity to practice their measurement 
  techniques by measuring the Game Objects and confirming their value.
• Reinforce measurement estimation skills by setting up several items during beginning of class for participants to estimate. This is also a good opportunity to practice estimation skills for an exam.