Measuring Height

Building as Learning Aid – BaLA Painting

Location of BaLA Painting

This painting is best suited on a pillar or wall in the corridor space outside Middle and Preparatory Stage classrooms, enabling students to measure and compare their heights during daily movement and play.

Learning Objective

After interacting with the BaLA painting, students will be able to:

1. Measure and record their height using standard units (feet, inches, and centimetres).
2. Compare heights of peers and identify taller, shorter, and equal heights.
3. Develop estimation, observation, data-recording, estimation, and decision-making skills through real-life measurement activities.
4. Collect, organize, and record data systematically using tables and tally marks. 
5. Represent data using pictographs and bar graphs.
6. Apply measurement and data handling skills to solve real-life problems involving comparison, estimation, and decision-making.

Curriculum Alignment

Cross-curricular Connections:

• EVS (Growth and Development)
• Health and Physical Education
• Art Integration

Inclusive Design Considerations

Visual Accessibility

• Large and clear numerical markings.
• Bright colours and high-contrast visuals.
• Easily distinguishable animal illustrations.

Accessibility for Students with Visual Impairment

• Raised/tactile markings can be added to key measurement points.
• Braille labels may be incorporated at regular intervals.
• Verbal support from peers or teachers.

Accessibility for Students with Hearing Impairment

• Visual instructions and demonstration-based activities.
• Number labels and pictorial cues support independent participation.

Accessibility for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

• Animal characters provide meaningful visual anchors.
• Activities can be broken into simple step-by-step tasks.
• Peer support and guided measurement activities.

Accessibility for Students with Physical Disabilities

• Measurement activities can be conducted with support.
• Students using wheelchairs can participate through adapted comparison and recording activities.
• Alternative methods such as arm-span measurement can be integrated.

Description of Artwork

Wall/Floor layout: 

Vertical height measurement chart painted on a corridor pillar with animal illustrations positioned at different height levels. Scale markings are provided from approximately 10 cm to 190 cm and from 1 to 6 feet.

Dimensions:

• Height: Approximately 6 feet (1.8 m)
• Width: Approximately 2.5 feet (0.75 m)
• Floor Area: Not applicable (pillar painting)

Colours used:

• Brown (tree trunk)
• Green (leaves and grass)
• Yellow, orange, blue, white, grey, pink, black
• Pastel background shades

Materials required:

Photographs

Video: Measuring Height

Learning Activities Using the BaLA

Activity 1

Name: Measure My Height

Objective: To measure and record personal height.

Procedure:

1. Students stand against the height chart.
2. The teacher or peer identifies the height reading.
3. Students record their measurements in a worksheet.

Inclusive Adaptations:

• Peer assistance for students requiring support.
• Braille/tactile markers where possible.
• Visual cue cards showing steps.

Activity 2

Name: Who Is Taller?

Objective: To compare heights of classmates.

Procedure:

1. Two students measure their heights.
2. Heights are recorded and compared.
3. Students identify who is taller, shorter, or if heights are equal.

Inclusive Adaptations:

• Use picture symbols for comparison.
• Pair students strategically for peer support.
• Allow verbal or visual responses.

Activity 3

Name: Growth Tracker

Objective: To observe and record growth over time.

Procedure:

1. Students measure their height monthly.
2. Measurements are recorded in a chart.
3. Students discuss changes and growth patterns.

Inclusive Adaptations:

• Use visual graphs and colour coding.
• Provide simplified recording sheets.
• Allow digital recording options where needed.

Assessment Opportunities

Observation Checklist

Teacher Resource Document