Summary

Math 10C Module 1 Lesson 2 In Lesson 2 you investigated the following questions:

  • How do I choose the appropriate techniques, instruments, and formulae to describe the dimensions of an object?

  • How can you measure the dimensions of objects of irregular shape or size?

In this lesson you examined various measuring instruments. You learned that a vernier caliper can measure the dimensions of small objects, such as the diameter of a dime. You learned that a trundle wheel can be used to measure the dimensions of large objects, such as the distance around a room. In order to accurately describe the dimensions of an object, you need to choose an appropriate measuring instrument and also the proper units. Knowing if an object is long or short, if the measurement should be in SI or imperial units, and also what instruments you have available will help you to choose an appropriate tool for measuring an object.

In this lesson you also found ways to measure the dimensions of irregular shapes. One way is to first use a piece of string to completely trace around the shape. Then stretch the string into a straight line and measure with a ruler. Another way is to input a related value, such as the diameter of a circle, into a mathematical formula.

In Lesson 3 you will learn how to convert measurements to different units within the same measurement system. You will also learn how to convert measurements between the SI system and the imperial system.