Catch a Fly

Materials

blindfold (optional)

Instructions

Create fuzzy caterpillar manipulatives by wrapping
each chenille stem tightly around a pencil to
create 2" coiled caterpillar shapes.
* Place the assorted caterpillars in the
plastic container and set it in the box
along with the common objects.
What to Do
1. Show the children images of caterpillars, and engage them in a discussion
about what they see. Talk about how long caterpillars are, and ask if they think
they could measure something by comparing it to a caterpillar. You might even
want to start a discussion about inchworms and why they are called that.
2. Place the box in the Math Station.
3. Demonstrate how to measure each item by laying a row of caterpillars along
the length of each object. Note: Explain to the children that they should not
use real caterpillars to attempt to measure objects.
4. Invite the children to count how many caterpillars long each item is.
5. Encourage the children to compare the lengths of the objects by making
statements such as "The pencil is longer than the crayon." "The book is longer
than the ruler."
6. Have the children return the materials to the box so the activity is ready for
the next person.
Assessment
Consider the following:
* Can the children count how many caterpillars it takes to measure an object?
* Do the children understand the basic concept of measurement?