Have students offer suggestions on ways to measure how much carpet is needed. Discuss various uses of measurement weight, volume, time, but more importantly length. Allow several minutes to explore the differences between volume, as used in cooking, and length. Have students predict easier way to measure amount of carpet needed. STOP after lady explains that there is an easier way to measure and the graphic illustration is shown.
Teacher models how to measure staircase for the class.
Measure both the treads and risers and add up. Have class add to practice addition. Use tape measure to show that technique shown in the video does work. Convert for the children between inches and feet. Depending on student understanding, may extend to yards as well.