Measurement is an important concept and skill in both math and science.  In elementary school, students are expected to be able to measure distances (and length, width, etc.), weight, volume, time, etc.  They are asked to measure in both standards (ie: feet, meters, pounds, etc.) and non-standard (ie: paperclips, straws, pennies, etc) units.  In middle and high school, students are expected to be able to make precise measurements, use a variety of units, and convert between units.

Next time you teach your students about measuring, use the story of the Smoot!