Time as a Measure: Elementary Students Positioning the Hands of an Analog Clock

Time is an area of measurement that is difficult for children. This interview study addresses the question: What are children's solution approaches to position the hands of an analog clock? To explore this, we investigated problem solving when using a clock manipulative with mechanically linked hands. We compare overall success rates among students in Grades 2 (n = 24) and 4 (n = 24) in positioning hour versus minute hands. We then present a qualitative analysis of solution approach for both hour and minute hands. Results indicate successful students may use the linked hands without overt consideration of the measurement structure of the clock. [For complete proceedings, see ED581294.]