In 4th grade, our current math unit focuses on understanding and applying measurement conversions, which directly connects to our learning standard 4.MD.1 (know relative sizes of measurement units within one system of units and express measurements in a larger unit in terms of a smaller unit). To bring this concept to life, we went on a "magical" adventure!
Students participated in a "scoot" activity to complete "The Wizard's Spell," where they had to solve measurement conversion problems to gather ingredients for a magical potion. The wizard potion cards were posted around the room as stations, and groups moved from one station to the next. Each group received a measurement conversion chart for reference, a "Book of Spells" worksheet, and access to their Chromebooks for a QR code reader.
The activity required students to solve problems like finding how many ounces are in 2 pounds, converting weeks to years, calculating feet in yards, and more. With each correct answer, students scanned a QR code to reveal a magical ingredient needed for their spell.
I saw 4th graders working diligently through these problems. The activity required them to convert between different units of measurement, perform various operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) with the converted measurements, use their measurement conversion charts as references, and verify their answers by scanning the QR codes. Students showed genuine engagement when they correctly solved a problem and discovered a new ingredient for their spell!
We discussed how unit conversions are used in everyday life—from cooking (cups to pints) to travel (miles to kilometers) to shopping (pounds to ounces). Students shared examples from their own experiences, like helping parents follow recipes or measuring ingredients. This activity provided students with an opportunity to practice math skills while encouraging collaboration and problem-solving. By the end of math, each group had successfully completed their spell with ingredients like "moon," "jellybeans," and "spider venom".
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