Metric Ruler Use and Operation

1. The metric ruler is used for measurement. There are two edges of the metric ruler. One edge has the English units of measurement (12 inches) and the other edge has the metric units of measurement (30.5 centimeters). Since scientists use metric units of measurement, turn the edge with centimeter markings toward the object to be measured.

2. The metric ruler can be used to measure the length of an object that already has a preexisting size or to create an object of a specific size.

Measuring an Object:

3. If measuring an object, align the 0 cm mark at the end of the metric ruler with one edge of the object being measured.

4. Place the metric ruler across the object being measured.

5. Align the end of the object with the corresponding mark on the metric ruler. Take a reading and record your data.

Creating an Object of a Specific Size:

6. A metric ruler may be used to create an object of a specific size. Align one end of the object with the 0 cm mark at the end of the metric ruler.

7. Stretch or lay the object being measured along the length of the metric ruler.

8. Determine the desired size of the object. Find the appropriate number along the metric ruler. Cut, fold, or make the object the correct size.

Understanding the Markings on the Metric Ruler:

9. A metric ruler is 30.5 cm long.

10. The metric ruler contains two lengths of marks. Each long mark represents 0.5 cm.

11. The short marks divide 1 cm into 10 small parts. Each short mark is one-tenth of a

centimeter ( cm or 0.1 cm).

12. The metric ruler has a label of “mm” beside the 1 cm mark. This is the abbreviation for millimeters. One millimeter is another way of representing 0.1 cm.