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Maths Games

Model making measurement activities

Measure, scale and build accurate miniature objects.

Quick answer

You can make accurate miniature models by measuring, scaling, and using the right tools to make things smaller but still the same shape.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to measure and scale objects to make smaller models that keep the same shape and proportions. Success signs:
  • You can use a ruler to measure length, width, and height
  • You can work out how to make something smaller while keeping the same shape
  • You can build a small model using your measurements
  • You can explain why your model looks like the real thing

Why this matters

Model making helps you use maths in real life. When you build a model, you're using measurement and scaling. This is important for:
  • Architecture and building design
  • Toy making and craft projects
  • Science experiments and engineering
  • Video games and animation
  • Planning your own room or garden
Even in games, you use model making skills! When you build with LEGO or Minecraft, you're making scaled versions of real things. In art, you might draw a small picture of a big tree. These skills help you understand how things work and how to make them smaller or bigger while keeping the same shape.

How it works

Model making uses measurement and scaling. Here's how to do it step by step:
  1. Choose what you want to make a model of
  2. Measure the real object carefully
  3. Decide how much smaller you want your model
  4. Calculate the new measurements
  5. Build your model using your scaled measurements
For example, if you want to make a model that is half the size of a real car, you measure the car, divide each measurement by 2, and then build your model using those smaller numbers.

Examples you can see

Let's look at a few examples of model making with measurements. Example 1: Building a model house Imagine you want to build a small house that's 1/4 the size of your real house.
  • Your real house is 6 metres wide
  • 1/4 of 6 metres = 6 ÷ 4 = 1.5 metres
  • Your model house should be 1.5 metres wide
Example 2: Making a model car You want to make a model car that is 1/10 the size of your real car.
  • Your real car is 4 metres long
  • 1/10 of 4 metres = 4 ÷ 10 = 0.4 metres
  • Your model car should be 0.4 metres long
Example 3: Scaling a drawing You draw a picture of a tree that's 20 cm tall. You want to make a model that is 1/5 the size.
  • 20 cm ÷ 5 = 4 cm
  • Your model tree should be 4 cm tall

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Build Your Own Model City You are a city planner! Your task is to make a small model city using everyday objects. Here's how to do it:
  1. Choose a real object to model (like a car, house, or tree)
  2. Measure the object carefully using a ruler or tape measure
  3. Decide how much smaller you want your model (1/2, 1/3, or 1/4)
  4. Calculate the new measurements
  5. Build your model using small objects like blocks, paper, or playdough
  6. Compare your model to the real thing and see how they match
4th time: Measure your chosen object and write down the measurements. Use a ruler or measuring tape. 5th time: Decide what scale you want to use. For example, 1/2, 1/3, or 1/4. 6th time: Do the math to find your new measurements. 7th time: Start building your model using your measurements. 8th time: Compare your model to the real object and see if they look the same shape.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Forgetting to measure all sides of an object
    Why it happens: Kids get excited and only measure one side
    Fix: Always measure length, width, and height (or depth) to make sure your model is the right size
  • Mistake: Not using the same scale for all measurements
    Why it happens: Kids think they can make one side smaller and another bigger
    Fix: Remember that all measurements must be scaled by the same amount
  • Mistake: Using the wrong units when calculating
    Why it happens: Mixing up centimetres and metres
    Fix: Always keep your units the same throughout your calculations
  • Mistake: Not checking if the model looks like the real thing
    Why it happens: Kids finish quickly and don't double-check
    Fix: Always compare your model to the original to see if it looks right

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child with model making by:
  • Choosing simple objects to start with (like a book, box, or toy)
  • Using a ruler or measuring tape to help measure accurately
  • Encouraging your child to think about how much smaller they want their model
  • Helping them check their calculations
  • Letting them make mistakes and learn from them
  • Practising with everyday objects like a cup, a shoe, or a book
  • Showing how model making is used in real life (like in toy shops, construction, or art)
  • Not worrying if their model isn't perfect - it's about learning the process
  • Encouraging them to explain their thinking to you
A few minutes of practice with measuring and scaling can really help your child understand how maths works in the real world. Keep it fun and exploratory!

Practice questions

  1. How many centimetres are in 1 metre?
  2. A real tree is 5 metres tall. What would be the height of a model that is 1/5 the size?
  3. A real car is 4 metres long. What would be the length of a model that is 1/4 the size?
  4. How do you calculate the measurements for a model that is 1/10 the size?
  5. A real book is 20 cm wide. What would be the width of a model that is 1/2 the size?
Answers:
  1. 100 cm
  2. 1 metre
  3. 1 metre
  4. Divide the real measurements by 10
  5. 10 cm

FAQ

What is model making?

Model making is when you create a smaller version of a real object using measurements and scaling to keep the same shape.

Why do we need to measure when making models?

We measure to make sure our model is the right size and shape compared to the real object. Without measuring, it would be hard to make it look like the original.

How do I know what scale to use for my model?

You can choose any scale that works for your project. Common ones are 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, or 1/10. It depends on how small you want your model to be.

Can I make models of anything?

Yes! You can make models of toys, buildings, animals, or even yourself. Just remember to measure carefully and scale properly.

What tools do I need for model making?

You need a ruler or measuring tape to measure, paper and pencil to write down measurements, and materials like blocks, paper, or clay to build with.