Measure with Paper Clips
Count the paper clips under each thing. How many clips long is it?
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This is sheet #14324601.
How to do it
- Look at the paper clips under each picture.
- Count the clips from one end to the other.
- Write how many clips long it is.
Teaching tip
Try it with real paper clips on a pencil after the sheet. This sheet is aligned with Common Core 1.MD.A.2.
About this worksheet
Pictures measured with a row of paper clips. A bigger unit means a smaller number.
What kids practice
In first grade, measuring means lining up copies of something small, like cubes or paper clips, along an object and counting them. Kids learn that the units have to touch with no gaps or overlaps, and they start at one end of the object. Rulers come later.
Watch for
- Starting in the middle of the object or leaving gaps between units.
- Saying just the number without the unit.
- Thinking a taller picture is longer even when it's measured the other way.
It's free to print, with an answer key. See the full measuring length guide for 1st grade.
More sheets in this set
- See it all
1. Measuring Length ChartHow to measure with no gaps or overlaps, why bigger units give a smaller number, and comparing lengths. 
2. Measure with CubesPictures of everyday things with a row of cubes underneath to count.
4. Longest and ShortestGroups of three pictures to compare by length. Matches 1.MD.A.1.