1. Systems of Linear Measure
Technology Exploration
Granite Oaks Middle School
Mr. Frank

2. Table of Contents Definitions Fractions & Decimals Conversions
Linear
Measure
Scale
Fractions & Decimals
Conversions
How to Read a Ruler
Ruler Example
Measuring Examples
Your turn to Practice

3. Definitions Measure Linear Scale Specifying a distance or length
Accurate measurements are critical in planning a project
Linear
Straight lines
Linear measure is the measurement of distance
Scale
Are constantly used in drafting
Used to make measurements that are full size, larger than, or smaller than the final product

4. Why Measure? Accurate measurement is critical for success!
Estimation of materials
So that all the pieces fit properly
Accuracy changes for each project
While machining, 1/100 of an inch may be necessary
While building a house 1/16” may be enough
We measure our projects so that they are built to the same specifications of their design

5. Fractions & Decimals Fractions tend to be less accurate than decimals
Fractions are commonly used for architecture and construction projects
Examples- Houses, trailers, fences, etc…
Decimals contain an implied accuracy
Decimals are used in engineering projects
Tight tolerances require great accuracy & precision
Decimals are used in mechanical drawings
Examples- Bearings, Gears, Motors, etc…

6. Fractions & Decimals Fractions Examples are ¼”; ½”; etc…
Denominator (the number on bottom)
Tells us how many divisions in an inch
½ = 2 divisions to make an inch
¼ = 4 divisions to make an inch
Numerator (the number on top)
Tells us how many of those divisions are used
¾ means that 3 of the 4 divisions are used
Fractional measures are always reduced
We would say 5/8” not 10/16”

7. Conversions We can go from fractions to decimals
We simply divide the fraction 1/8” = 1÷8 = 0.125”
We can go from decimals to fractions
0.0625” = 1/16”
We generally use decimals for tight tolerances and high accuracy needs
We generally use feet and inches for construction projects and general building

8. How to Read a Ruler Every mark on our rulers are 1/16”
Count the number of marks
The count goes in the numerator.
The denominator will always be 16
If the count is an even number, it will need to be reduced
i.e. 12/16” = 6/8” = ¾”
i.e. 9/16” can not be reduced

9. Fractional Ruler 9/16” 1/16” 3/16” 5/16” 7/16” 11/16” 15/16” 13/16”
7/8”
1/8”
3/8”
5/8”
1/4”
3/4” 1”
1/2”

10. Fractional Ruler
How long are the lines?
15/16”
3/8”
3/4”

11. Fractional Ruler ¼” What measurement is identified by the pointer?
11/16”
7/16”

12. Your Turn to Practice Complete each handout using a pencil
Some of the handouts require a standard ruler. Obtain a standard ruler from your instructor.
Some of the exercises require an enlarged ruler. That is included as needed in your handouts
Read and follow all directions for full credit