Measuring Instruments and Techniques

Start with quantities and units

The mind map Measurement introduces physical quantities as things that can be measured with a numerical magnitude and a unit. It includes quantities such as mass, time and temperature. Starting here gives you a way to organize the terms you meet in the other resources.

The notes in the measurement mind map on base quantities and SI units include length, mass and time alongside their units. Use them to connect a quantity with the unit used to describe it.

Explore measuring tools

For examples of instruments, look for the Measurements mind map that includes a stopwatch, measuring tape, meter stick and graduated cylinder. It connects these tools with measurements such as time, length and liquid volume.

Another Measurements mind map compares analogue and digital meters. It describes a pointer moving over a continuous scale and explains that a reading may need to be estimated when the pointer falls between divisions.

Use flashcards and quizzes with maps

The Measuring instruments flashcards list quantities including length, time, force, current and temperature. After studying a map, use the cards to check which terms you recognize. Return to the map when you want to see how a quantity or tool fits with the others.

The page also includes quizzes, including Science. A quiz can give you another way to check what you know. Compare its questions with the maps and cards, then return to any resource you want to study again.

Connect the topic to the unit

Measuring Instruments and Techniques is a section of the Measurement and Units unit in Physics. The maps and cards bring quantities, units and tools together, making them a useful starting point for exploring the unit. Pick a resource that matches what you want to practice and begin there.