Understanding what a measurable attribute is and becoming familiar with the units and processes that are used in measuring attributes is a major emphasis in this Standard. Through their school experience, primarily in prekindergarten through grade 8, students should become proficient in using measurement tools, techniques, and formulas in a range of situations. The study of measurement is important in the mathematics curriculum from prekindergarten through high school because of the practicality and pervasiveness of measurement in so many aspects of everyday life. The study of measurement also offers an opportunity for learning and applying other mathematics, including number operations, geometric ideas, statistical concepts, and notions of function. It highlights connections within mathematics and between mathematics and areas outside of mathematics, such as social studies, science, art, and physical education.
Measurement lends itself especially well to the use of concrete materials.
In fact, it is unlikely that children can gain a deep understanding of measurement without handling materials, making comparisons physically, and measuring with tools. Measurement concepts should grow in sophistication and breadth across the grades, and instructional programs should not repeat the same measurement curriculum year after year. However, it should be emphasized more in the elementary and middle grades than in high school. A measurable attribute is a characteristic of an object that can be quantified. Line segments have length, plane regions have area, and physical objects have mass.