1. Module 2

1.1. Lesson 1

Mathematics 10-3 Module 2

Module 2: The Imperial System

 

Lesson 1: Length

 

Focus

 

Did You Know?

 

The imperial system of weights and measures was first defined in 1824—less than 200 years ago!


 

This photograph shows the wooden frame of a house under construction.

© Paul Matthew Photography/shutterstock

Have you thought about a career in the construction trades? In Canada, many of the trades still work with feet (ft or ′) and inches (in or ″)—part of the imperial system of weights and measures. If you talk to framing carpenters, they will point out that interior drywall and exterior sheeting commonly used throughout North America is manufactured in 4-by-8-ft lengths.

 

Drywall and sheeting are screwed to vertical posts called studs. Framing carpenters must carefully measure the horizontal distances between studs so the ends of the sheeting or drywall fall in the middle of the studs and can be screwed on securely. Do you know how far apart vertical studs are in a new home?

 

In this lesson you will explore the following questions:

  • How are lengths and distances commonly measured in the imperial system?
  • What is the history of length and distance units in the imperial system?
  • How are imperial system units related?
  • How are imperial system units applied in practical situations?
  • How can units of length and distance be converted between the imperial and metric systems?
Assessment

 

You will complete the Lesson 1 Assignment Booklet for assessment. Download the Lesson 1 Assignment Booklet and save it in your course folder now. You will receive instructions on how to complete the Assignment Booklet later in the lesson. You will also be prompted to work on the Unit 1 Project.

 

There are other activities that you will complete throughout this lesson. It is important to complete all activities and save them in your course folder. Your teacher may ask to see your work at any time.

 

The lesson provides you with opportunities to investigate, review examples, and practise the knowledge and skills you are learning. In Self-Check activities you can compare your answers to see if you are on track. If you are having difficulty with concepts or calculations, contact your teacher.

 

Required Materials and Equipment

 

You will need a ruler or a tape measure that shows inches.