Measuring

The best way to learn about measuring is to try doing it. But books are a useful way to introduce the concept and practise the language of measuring.

Ten Beads Tall
by Pam Adams
(Child's Play)
This book doesn't just talk about measuring - it encourages children to do it. Securely attached to the spine is a cord on which are ten beads, identical in size but varied in colour. Readers are encouraged to use the beads to measure the size of the pictures on the pages. There is no story - each spread features a different measuring activity to introduce a range of measuring words including tall, wide, high and long. The last two spreads use measuring to help decide which vehicles will fit in a tunnel and matching objects to the appropriate size box.
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Knights in Armour
by Sally Hewitt and Serena Feneziani
(Belitha Press)
A simple story about a tournament is told with delightful touches of humour and plenty of opportunities to practise the language of measuring. There is no mention of units so sizes and weights are compared rather than measured. Each picture presents fresh puzzles to talk about as well as jokes to share and a glimpse of medieval life.
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Six Feet Long and Three Feet Wide
by Jeannie Billington
(Walker Books)
A delightfully funny story which illustrates the need for standard measures in a way children will enjoy and remember. As well as the mathematical message, the clear, easy to read text uses all types of punctuation so the book could be useful for the Literacy Hour. 
More able readers could tackle this alone but might need help with the thinking behind it. The book is also suitable for use with older children with special needs. 
Also available as part of the Maths Together series
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