UNIT: MEASUREMENT

ACT-Based Math: Estimating and Converting Measurements

OBJECTIVE:

This activity strengthens students’ unit conversion skills by applying them to real-world measurement problems. It enhances critical thinking through estimation, calculation, and verification while reinforcing fluency in converting between standard and metric units, key for ACT Math success.

Mathematical Thinking Challenge:

Why is it important to convert between different units of measurement accurately?

How do estimation skills help in real-world problem-solving situations?

What are some common errors students make when converting measurements?

Real-World Application Problem:

A company needs to order fabric for a project. Each roll of fabric is 2.5 meters long, but the order form requires measurements in feet. If 1 meter = 3.28 feet, how many feet of fabric are in each roll?

6.25 feet

8.2 feet

10.5 feet

11.8 feet

Instructions:

Group Formation: Divide students into small groups (2-3 members per group).

Problem Assignments: Each group receives a conversion challenge card with a real-world scenario.

Estimation Round: Before converting, students estimate the answer based on their understanding of unit relationships.

Calculation & Verification: Students use the provided conversion factors to calculate the exact values and verify their answers using measurement tools.

Reflection & Discussion: Groups present their findings, explaining their thought process, challenges faced, and strategies for avoiding conversion errors.

Materials Needed:

Conversion reference sheet with common unit conversions

Measurement tools (rulers, tape measures)

Objects for real-world measurements (e.g., books, classroom items)

Worksheet templates for problem-solving