Smile Metric Style

by Liz LaRosa

www.middleschoolscience.com

 (original) Click here for a modified pdf version

Objectives:

• to learn how to use a metric ruler to measure length

• to accurately read and record measurements taken in centimeters (cm) and millimeters (mm)

• to collect and analyze data using a stem and leaf

Materials:

• rulers

• yarn

• smiles 

Procedures:

1. Take a piece of yarn and measure your partner's smile straight across from corner to corner

2. Keep your fingers on the yarn as you  transfer the yarn to the ruler

3. Record measurements, cm and mm,  in Table 1

4. Place data on the Class Stem and Leaf

5. Throw yarn away

Data:

Table 1: Smile length (half page)

 

Figure 1: Stem and leaf of class data - smile length - cm (half page)

 

Table 2: Summary data table of class smiles - cm (half page)

Analysis/Results:

1. Who had the largest smile? ________cm:  ___________mm
2. Smallest _________cm? ____________mm
3. Including everyone, how big is our smile as a class?!?! __________cm __________mm
4. What is the connection between cm and mm?
5. How many centimeters are on your ruler? __________ Millimeters? _______

Conclusion: 

In 2-3 sentences, explain what you learned in this lab.

Extension:  Create a pictograph of each classes total smile length and post in the hall way!