Measuring Angles

    Fourth grade is when students are first introduced to the protractor. Looking at a protractor can be intimidating to a student. There are lots of numbers and lines and it doesn't make any sense. One of the biggest errors my students make when learning this skill is using the wrong number to describe the angle.  They are comfortable with the actual physical act of measuring an angle; however, they continuously struggle with choosing the correct angle measurement to describe the angle (ex: saying that an angle is 110° when it should be 70° because it is actually an acute angle).

    One of my favorite activities to do with my students is an angle measuring activity. I use painter's tape to make angles all over my kidney shaped table.  Students then use a protractor to measure each angle and record their answers directly on the table with dry erase markers. I do this during center time so that each child has a chance to practice and so that I can actively monitor students to clear up any misconceptions. Students love this activity because they get to use a new tool and also because they love to write on the table! Students walk away from this activity with a greater understanding of how to use a protractor and how to check to see if their measurement actually makes sense.