Runway Measurement

Measurement activities develop spatial reasoning and prepare children for understanding units and comparisons in mathematics.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Air Travel
• Learning area: Numeracy
• Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception

Objectives

• Compare lengths of objects
• Use non-standard measurement units
• Order objects from longest to shortest

Materials

• Wooden blocks
• Measuring tapes
• Classroom objects of various lengths

Instructions

Create a runway on the floor with blocks. Children measure objects using non-standard units and compare lengths.

Educator tip

Model the measurement process by walking heel-to-toe and counting steps aloud to demonstrate systematic measurement.

Assessment

Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe understanding of comparative vocabulary and accuracy in ordering objects by length.

More from EYFS Air Travel

• Hot Air Balloon Shapes
• Macaroni Flight Patterns
• Flying High ABC Book
• ABC Scavenger Hunt Flight
• Air Travel Story Time
• Sandy Sky Letters
• Ticket Writing Station
• Rhyming in the Clouds