Student resources
Grades 3-8
Metric Conversion Chart for Students
Metric units are based on powers of 10. That makes them easier to compare once you know the common prefixes and what each unit is usually used for.
Key ideas
- Milli means one thousandth, so 1 meter equals 1,000 millimeters.
- Centi means one hundredth, so 1 meter equals 100 centimeters.
- Kilo means one thousand, so 1 kilometer equals 1,000 meters.
- Use smaller units for small objects and larger units for longer distances or heavier masses.
Length
| Unit | Meaning | Common example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 millimeter (mm) | Very small length | Thickness of a coin |
| 1 centimeter (cm) | 10 millimeters | Width of a fingernail |
| 1 meter (m) | 100 centimeters | Height of a desk |
| 1 kilometer (km) | 1,000 meters | Distance across town |
Mass and Volume
| Unit | Meaning | Common example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 milligram (mg) | Very small mass | Tiny amount of medicine |
| 1 gram (g) | 1,000 milligrams | Small paper clip |
| 1 kilogram (kg) | 1,000 grams | Bag of rice |
| 1 milliliter (ml) | Small liquid volume | A few drops |
| 1 liter (L) | 1,000 milliliters | Bottle of water |
Practice questions
How many centimeters are in 2 meters?
Answer: 200 centimeters
How many grams are in 3 kilograms?
Answer: 3,000 grams
Which is longer: 500 meters or 1 kilometer?
Answer: 1 kilometer