Measurement: String Hunt

The distinctions between number and size (more pieces of yarn vs. longer pieces) is a subtle one. Don't be discouraged if the kids don't all catch on today.

Objectives

Children ages 3-4 are able to pick out which end is the longest Cog. I
and they are able to lay string end to end and determine which is longer Cog. IIIA
All children are able to find hidden objects like yarn.

 

Materials

Scissors; yarn of different colors and lengths (6" to 2'); a smooth rug.

Procedures

1. Cut yarn to varying lengths.

2. Have all the children sit and tell them that they are going to have a yarn hunt—like an Easter egg hunt, only with yarn. Explain that they will hunt for yarn and put together the pieces they find to form a long line. Try putting a few pieces of yarn together and then comparing the length to fewer pieces of yarn that are longer. ("It's the longest, not the most.")

3. Choose a few children to help hide the yarn. Have the rest of the group leave the room and return after all the yarn has been hidden.

4. After the returning kids have found the yarn, show them how to lay it end to end. Discuss which child has the longest resulting line, the shortest. Children might find that someone who has more pieces of yarn still might have a shorter line than someone with fewer pieces. Kids can use the yarn to measure their own or each other's body parts or objects around the room.

5. Let the second group hide more yarn while the first group leaves.