Comparing Length
Length tells us how long or short something is. We can compare the length of two or more objects to find which one is longer or shorter.
For example, one pencil may be longer than another pencil. We can compare them by placing them together and checking their ends.
Learning Objectives
- Understand what length means.
- Compare the length of two objects.
- Use longer and shorter correctly.
- Recognise when two objects have the same length.
Longer and Shorter
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The first line is longer. The second line is shorter.
When comparing two objects, the object that extends farther has the greater length.
Comparing Two Pencils
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The first pencil is longer than the second pencil.
Same Length
Sometimes two objects can have the same length.
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Both lines have the same length.
How to Compare Length
- Place the objects next to each other.
- Keep their starting ends together.
- Look at where their other ends finish.
- Decide which object is longer, shorter or equal.
Common Mistakes
- Do not compare objects from different starting points.
- Do not judge length only by position.
- Make sure the objects are placed correctly before comparing.
Practice
1. Which is longer: a 15 cm pencil or a 10 cm pencil?
2. Which is shorter: a long ruler or a short pencil?
3. What do we compare when we use longer and shorter?
4. Can two objects have the same length?
Try It Yourself
Find two pencils, books or pieces of paper. Place them together with their starting ends aligned. Decide which one is longer or shorter.
Quick Revision
- Length tells us how long or short something is.
- Longer means greater length.
- Shorter means less length.
- Two objects can have the same length.
What Comes Next?
You can now compare length. Next, you will learn how to compare the height of objects and people.