Big Ideas: As in the place value system, a metric unit's value is 10 times the value of the metric unit to its right. The metric system is a consistent system of measurement. In this lesson, students are formally introduced to the metric system of measurement. In grades 2 and 3, they used metric units for measurement, but this will be their first introduction to how the metric system works. This lesson will focus on providing students opportunities for concrete experiences as well as work with the metric chart to explore the relationships between different units of measurement. Comparisons to the place value system will reinforce the structure of the metric system. Vocabulary: metric system, kilo-, centi-, milli-, meter Special Materials: centimeter cubes* decimeter rods * meter sticks dice *May use Base Ten Blocks