Measuring in Body Parts
Amazing Fact: In ancient times, records show that length was
first measured using body parts - the forearm, hand or finger.
Challenge: Use your forearm, handspan and finger to measure the
length of different objects around you. You might need someone to
help you.
1. forearm - distance between your fingertip and your elbow
2. handspan - distance between your thumb and little finger
when your fingers are stretched out.
3. Finger – width of your index or 'first' finger
You could also try to find out:
•
what the term hairbreadth means;
•
about other unusual units of measurement;
•
how time was measured in ancient times;
•
where the word 'measurement' comes from.
Measure a few objects around your house. Use forearm, handspan
and finger to measure. Create a table like the one below and record
the measurements.
Measured by _________________________________ (your name)
Object
Forearm
Handspan
Finger
Forearm
-
Handspan
15
Finger
-
Example:
Object
Table
Now ask a family member to measure the same objects. Create a
table record the measurements.
Measured by _________________________ (family member name)
Object
Forearm
Handspan
Finger
Answer the following questions based on your observations.
1. What surprised you about this way of measuring?
2. Were the measurements the same `
3. Do you think it is an accurate way to measure? Explain your
reasons.