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Super Mario Maker Maths

Where is measurement hiding in Super Mario Maker jump distances?

Test how far a character can jump and use that distance in design.

Quick answer

In Super Mario Maker, when you design a level, you can use measurement to figure out how far Mario jumps, and then use that measurement to plan where to place blocks, coins, or enemies.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to measure how far Mario jumps in Super Mario Maker and use that measurement to plan your level design. Success signs:
  • You can use a ruler or blocks to measure Mario’s jump distance
  • You can compare jump distances of different jumps
  • You can plan where to place items in a level based on jump distance
  • You can explain how jump distance helps make a level fun to play

Why this matters

Measurement is all around us, even in the games we love! In Super Mario Maker, you can use measurement to make sure your levels are just the right difficulty. If your jumps are too short, Mario might not make it over gaps. If they're too long, the game might feel too easy. By measuring how far Mario jumps, you can make sure your level is fun and challenging for players. Even outside of games, we use measurement all the time. When you're cooking, you measure ingredients. When you're building with LEGO, you measure how tall your towers are. When you're playing football, you measure how far you kick the ball. Measurement helps us understand space, distance, and how things fit together.

How it works

To measure Mario’s jump distance in Super Mario Maker, you can use blocks or a ruler. Each block is one unit of measurement, and you can count how many blocks Mario jumps to get the distance. Let’s break it down into simple steps:
  1. Start by creating a simple jump for Mario
  2. Place a block at the start of the jump
  3. Count how many blocks Mario jumps over to land
  4. Write down how far he jumped
  5. Try different jumps and compare the distances
You can also use a ruler or a measuring tape if you're using a computer or tablet. This helps you make sure you’re measuring the distance correctly.

Examples you can see

Let’s imagine you’re making a Super Mario Maker level. You want to make a gap that Mario can jump over. Here’s how you can measure it: Example 1: Short Jump
  • Mario starts on a block
  • He jumps over 2 blocks
  • He lands on a block
  • Mario jumped 2 blocks in distance
Example 2: Long Jump
  • Mario starts on a block
  • He jumps over 5 blocks
  • He lands on a block
  • Mario jumped 5 blocks in distance
Example 3: Jump with a Coin
  • Mario starts on a block
  • He jumps over 3 blocks
  • He lands on a block
  • There is a coin on the 2nd block
  • Mario jumped 3 blocks in distance
These examples help you understand how to measure Mario’s jump and use that information to plan your level.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Build a Jumping Challenge! You are going to design a Super Mario Maker level with different jumps. Here’s how to do it: 1st time: Place a block for Mario to start on 2nd time: Place a block 1 block away for Mario to jump to 3rd time: Place a block 2 blocks away for Mario to jump to 4th time: Place a block 3 blocks away for Mario to jump to 5th time: Place a block 4 blocks away for Mario to jump to 6th time: Place a block 5 blocks away for Mario to jump to 7th time: Place a block 6 blocks away for Mario to jump to Now, try jumping over each of these blocks. Count how many blocks Mario jumps over each time and write down the distances. Can you make a level where Mario jumps 4 blocks, then 6 blocks, then 3 blocks? Try to plan it and see if you can make it work!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Not counting the blocks properly
    Why it happens: When you’re jumping, it’s easy to get confused about where Mario starts and where he lands.
    Fix: Always place a block at the start and end of the jump so you can see exactly how many blocks Mario jumps over.
  • Mistake: Thinking Mario jumps the same distance every time
    Why it happens: It’s easy to think that all jumps are the same, especially when you’re in the middle of designing a level.
    Fix: Measure each jump separately and write down the distances so you can compare them.
  • Mistake: Not planning how far Mario can jump before placing blocks
    Why it happens: When you’re excited to design, you might place blocks without thinking about if Mario can jump far enough.
    Fix: Always test your jumps first and measure them before placing the blocks for your level.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child by:
  • Encouraging them to measure each jump in Super Mario Maker
  • Letting them count the blocks to find out how far Mario jumps
  • Asking questions like: “How far do you think Mario will jump?” or “Can you make a jump that’s 4 blocks long?”
  • Helping them write down the distances so they can compare jumps
  • Encouraging them to make their level more challenging by trying longer jumps
It’s okay if they get confused at first. Measurement is a skill that takes practice. Be patient and celebrate small wins, like correctly counting 3 blocks or planning a jump that works!

Practice questions

  1. How many blocks does Mario jump if he starts on a block, jumps over 2 blocks, and lands on a block?
  2. If Mario jumps 4 blocks and then 3 blocks, how many blocks in total did he jump?
  3. Which jump is longer: 3 blocks or 5 blocks?
  4. How many blocks does Mario jump if he starts on a block, jumps over 6 blocks, and lands on a block?
  5. Can you plan a level with jumps of 2, 4, and 1 block? Try to draw it out.
Answers:
  1. Mario jumps 2 blocks
  2. Mario jumps 7 blocks in total
  3. The jump of 5 blocks is longer
  4. Mario jumps 6 blocks
  5. Draw 3 jumps: 2 blocks, 4 blocks, and 1 block

FAQ

How do I measure Mario’s jump in Super Mario Maker?

You can use blocks to measure Mario’s jump. Place a block at the start and end of the jump, and count how many blocks Mario jumps over.

Why is measuring Mario’s jump distance important?

Measuring jump distance helps you plan where to place blocks, coins, and enemies in your level. It makes sure your level is fun and challenging to play.

Can I use a ruler to measure jumps?

Yes! If you're using a computer or tablet, you can use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance of Mario’s jump.

What if Mario can’t jump far enough?

If Mario can’t jump far enough, you can make the jump shorter or add more blocks to help him reach the end.

How can I make my level more fun with jumps?

You can make jumps of different lengths, add coins or enemies at different points, and create a challenge that makes the game exciting for players.