Free interactive maths lesson for primary children

Reading Scales

Count SPACES, not marks between two labelled endpoints. Learn how to read a scale with this public interactive lesson; no sign-in is needed.

Practise continuously with new questions

How to find the value of each interval

  1. Subtract the endpoint values: take the smaller endpoint value from the larger endpoint value.
  2. Count the number of equal spaces, or intervals, between the two labelled endpoints.
  3. Divide the difference between the endpoint values by the interval count.

Value of one interval = (larger endpoint − smaller endpoint) ÷ number of intervals.

Worked example: a weighing scale

Worked example: 100g → 200g on a weighing scale has 5 equal intervals. First subtract: 200g − 100g = 100g. Then divide by 5: each interval is 20g.

Three intervals after 100g gives 100g + (3 × 20g) = 160g.

Explore different kinds of scales

  • Touch and explore straight number scales.
  • Read weighing scales in g (grams).
  • Read measuring cylinders in ml (millilitres).
  • Read thermometers in °C (degrees Celsius).
  • Read approximate volumes on beakers in ml (millilitres).
  • Set each instrument to a target value, then check your position.

After exploring the examples, use the independent practice to check that you can read each scale on your own.