Fun Metric Measurement Practice Activities – Length, Volume, Mass of Pet Rock

Have some fun with metric measurement! Third, fourth, or fifth grade students measure length, volume, and mass of a pet rock. A generic lab sheet lets them practice with other objects as well.

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Get Ready

• Kids select “pet rocks.” (You may bring in a variety of small rocks or let them find their own. Each must fit in the graduated cylinder you’re using without getting stuck.)
• They add some personality to their rocks by drawing faces, clothes, etc. with indelible markers. (optional)
• They name their rocks.

Get Set

Introduce or review measuring:

• metric length to the nearest millimeter or tenth of a centimeter
• volume using a graduated cylinder
• mass with a balance scale

Go!

• Practice Option 1: Stations - If you have a limited number of measuring tools, place them in centers, and let kids rotate to each activity in small groups. (Station signs are included).
• Practice Option 2: Groups - If you have more measuring tools, place students in lab groups. Supply a ruler, graduated cylinder, balance scale, and gram weights to each group.

The generic lab sheet can be used over and over for practice with objects of your choice.

Enjoy teaching measurement!

Brenda Kovich