NCERT Class 6 Science Curiosity: Chapter 5 — Measurement of Length and Motion
This chapter, "Measurement of Length and Motion," from NCERT's Class 6 Science Curiosity textbook, introduces the fundamental concepts of measurement. It begins with a relatable scenario of Deepa needing a new uniform and the various ways length is measured, from a shopkeeper's metal rod to a tailor's flexible tape and a mother's instruction using 'char angula' (four fingers width). The chapter then explores different non-standard units of measurement used by people, such as grandmother's arm length and a farmer's strides or feet. It highlights the importance of consistent and accurate measurement, contrasting these with standard units. The discussion among Deepa and her friends emphasizes the fun and practical aspects of measuring, leading to an activity using a handspan ('balisht') to measure the classroom table. This chapter lays the groundwork for understanding why standard units are necessary for reliable scientific measurements and introduces the idea of motion.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 6 |
| Subject | Science |
| Book | Curiosity |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Measurement of Length and Motion |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 310 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of measurement and its importance in daily life.
- Identify different non-standard units of length (e.g., handspan, arm, stride).
- Recognize the need for standard units of measurement.
- Begin to understand the concept of motion.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Measurement | The process of determining the size, amount, or degree of something by comparison with a standard unit. |
| Length | The measurement or extent of something from end to end. |
| Motion | The action or process of moving. |
| Uniform | The same throughout; unchanging. |
| Char angula | Four fingers width (a traditional unit of length). |
| Handspan | The distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the fingers are spread wide. |
| Balisht | Handspan (a traditional unit of length). |
| Stride | A long, decisive step. |
The complete chapter text is read in the official NCERT PDF viewer below (streamed from ncert.nic.in). This page provides NCERT Help study material — summary, vocabulary, practice questions, and FAQs — not a full reproduction of the textbook.
Read chapter online
This PDF is loaded from the official NCERT website (ncert.nic.in). Use the page buttons below to read — download is disabled on NCERT Help.
Read page by page below. PDF is streamed from the official NCERT website — no download button on this page.
Practice questions
- Why did Deepa need a new uniform? Answer: Deepa needed a new uniform because she had grown taller.
- Name two non-standard units of length mentioned in the chapter. Answer: Two non-standard units mentioned are arm length and strides.
- What is a handspan? Answer: A handspan is the distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the fingers are spread wide.
- What does 'char angula' mean? Answer: 'Char angula' means four fingers width.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main topic of NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter 5?
Chapter 5 of NCERT Class 6 Science, 'Measurement of Length and Motion,' introduces the concept of measuring length using various units and touches upon the idea of motion.
What are some examples of non-standard units of length discussed?
The chapter mentions using a grandmother's arm length, a farmer's strides, feet, and a handspan (balisht) as non-standard units of length.
What is a handspan used for in the chapter?
A handspan, also called 'balisht,' is used as a non-standard unit to measure the length of the classroom table.
What does 'char angula' refer to?
'Char angula' is a traditional way of measuring length, meaning the width of four fingers.
Why is understanding measurement important for Class 6 Science students?
Understanding measurement is crucial for scientific observation and experimentation, forming a basis for many physics concepts like motion.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 6 Science — Curiosity — Chapter 5 — Measurement of Length and Motion. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.