Metric System Estimation

The Metric Estimation Game is presented as a model learning activity. At the end of this session, using your notes, you will be able to:
•    DEMONSTRATE metric system measurement estimation skills.
•    APPLY the metric system of measurement to quantify the length, mass, and volume of everyday household objects at multiple magnitudes.
•    SELECT and EMPLOY appropriate length measurement tools.
•    DEVELOP quantity benchmarks that facilitate the sensemaking of 1 kilogram, 1 liter, and 1 meter.
•    APPROXIMATE measurement scale using at least three metric system prefixes.

Game participants collaborate in small groups to earn points as they become familiar with metric (SI) mass, length, and volume measurement units. Students determine a quantity estimate for each game item, which is compared to a verified value. Multiple measurement methods may be used to verify results. Some estimations are determined using basic math formulas. The SI prefixes milli, centi, and kilo are used. Measurement writing style requirements for unit symbols are applied during the game.

Although this activity is designed for a middle school audience, it can be modified to accommodate elementary or high school learners. Extensions include updating the game board to focus on only one measurement parameter during a game session (e.g., mass, length, or volume). Products identified in this session do not imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) nor imply that they are necessarily best for the purpose.

This session is ideal for K-12 educators and Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) professionals and other outreach ambassadors responsible for instructing middle school students on measurement techniques and STEAM careers.

Participants should bring these materials to the online session: Two 500 mL water bottles (full, remove label), one 2 L bottle (empty, from recycling), one plastic produce bag (from recycling), one U.S. nickel coin, one unused colored wax crayon, and a timer (clock or phone displaying seconds).

• Identify a Scheduled Class – Review the OWM Training and Events calendar to identify a scheduled class for this course.
• Request a Scheduled Class – After creating an OWM Contacts System account, request a class in the OWM Contacts System or login to your existing account. View the videos below for detailed instructions.
• Request an Unscheduled Course – To indicate your interest in an unscheduled course, visit the OWM Contacts System Menu to review “Courses,” select the Course title, and submit your interest. Unscheduled course requests are periodically reviewed by the instructor. Classes for a course may be scheduled based on the level of participant interest. OWM schedules classes when the minimum number of orders are received.
• For additional information, please see the Training FAQs or OWM Contacts System Help, or email your questions to owm [at] nist.gov (owm[at]nist[dot]gov).

Successful completion includes participation in all activities and discussions. Session participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance (which does not include participant names or CEUs) by email after the session. Attendance is recorded in the unofficial transcript, which is available in the OWM Contacts System.

Microsoft Teams requirements:

• Computer. At least a 1.1 GHz, two-core processor, 4GB of RAM, and 3GB of hard drive space for basic use. For a better experience, especially with video, a more powerful processor like a 4-core model is recommended.
• Software and Operating System. The operating system must be a supported version of Windows, macOS, or Linux, or a mobile OS like Android or iOS.
• Windows: Windows 11, Windows 10 (excluding LTSC), Windows 10 on ARM, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2012 R2.
• macOS: Check the specific requirements for the version of macOS you are using.
• Linux: Teams for Linux is available as a progressive web app (PWA) and works on supported desktop environments like GNOME or KDE.
• Mobile: Supported on the last four major versions of Android and the last two major versions of iOS.
• Internet Network (Bandwidth): A fast internet connection is recommended for video calls and screen sharing. Microsoft recommends a minimum of 10 mbps up/down per Teams Room. Teams prioritizes audio over video quality.
• Display. Minimum 1024x768 resolution.
• Video camera. USB 2.0.
• Speakers.
• Microphone.