Converting between centimetres and millimetres
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can convert between centimetres and millimetres
Key learning points
- To convert between cm and mm, we can use the relationship between 1 cm and 10 mm.
- To convert between mm, and cm and mm, we can use partitioning.
- Estimating the length or height of an object helps us to decide which unit to use when measuring.
Keywords
Equivalent - When something is equivalent, it is equal in value.
Convert - When we can convert, we change the unit of measurement between millimetres and centimetres but the value remains the same.
Common misconception
E.g. 30 mm is not equivalent to 3 cm because 30 is a larger number.
10 mm are equivalent to 1 cm. Millimetres are smaller than centimetres and 10 mm are needed to make an equivalent length to 1 cm.
Teacher tip
This lesson should be done as practically as possible. Ensure the children have concrete experience of what 1 mm, 10 mm and 1 cm look like. It is not necessary to relate the learning to the 10 times-table but can be discussed if a child spots it.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the length of this ribbon?
Q2.There are in 1 m.
Q3.Starting with the tallest, order these measurements of height.
Q4.What is the length of this ribbon?
Q5.What is the length of this pencil?
Q6.By partitioning, match the whole number to its parts.
10 and 8
20 and 7
20 and 9
30 and 1
10 and 3
70 and 2
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.When we change the unit of measurement between millimetres and centimetres, we .
Q2.Convert the length of this leaf from cm into mm.
Q3.Which pebble is longer?
Q4.Match the given lengths in cm and mm to their mm equivalent.
11 mm
35 mm
53 mm
68 mm
69 mm
79 mm
Q5.Which mouse is taller and by how much?
Q6.Starting with the tallest, put these lengths into order.
To help you plan your 3 maths lesson on: Converting between centimetres and millimetres, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 maths lesson on: Converting between centimetres and millimetres, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 maths lessons from the Measuring length and recording in tables unit, dive into the full primary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.