Cluster 4: Understanding Measurement and Data as a Context to Compare Numbers 

In this cluster, students use linear measurement in non-standard units as a context for further exploring comparison situations. Students begin by comparing the length of objects using a 3rd object as reference. Students then describe the comparison using ‘greater than’, ‘less than’ and ‘equal to’. As students are measuring and comparing the length of objects, the symbols for
comparisons should be introduced. (<, >, and =) Students should be provided with ample experiences to measure length in nonstandard units in their own ways to establish a rationale for more precise measurement. Measurement is used as a real-world context for introducing addition of 3 whole numbers. Addition at this time should center around using concrete objects and drawings to find sums. (See About this Cluster and the Unpacking Document below for more details on this cluster.)