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11+ Reading and Interpreting Scales
This lesson of 11+ Reading and Interpreting Scales helps you understand Reading and Interpreting Scales, a key skill tested in 11+ Maths. After learning the method, you can try our quiz to check your understanding. As part of TestLife’s Free 11+ Practice Resources, this topic will help you read measuring tools accurately and confidently. Practise regularly to improve your speed and accuracy in real exam questions.
Reading and Interpreting Scales is an important skill in the 11+ Maths exam. You’ll often see scales on rulers, thermometers, measuring jugs, weighing scales, or number lines. The key is to understand what each small marking represents so you can read values accurately.
Every scale has major intervals (large numbered marks) and minor intervals (small lines in between). Start by checking the difference between two numbered marks. For example, on a measuring jug, the scale might show 0, 100, 200, 300 ml, and so on. If there are 5 small lines between each number, you divide the interval:
100 ml ÷ 5 = 20 ml, so each small line equals 20 ml.
Let’s try an example:
A thermometer shows 10°C and 20°C with 10 small lines between them.
10°C difference ÷ 10 lines = 1°C per line.
If the red line is on the 3rd small mark after 10°C, the temperature is 13°C.
Exam-style tip: Be careful with scales that do NOT start at zero. Some weighing scales begin at 2 kg or even 10 kg. Always check where the scale begins before reading the value.
Another common mistake is guessing the answer without working out the interval. Take a moment to calculate the value of each line. This helps avoid losing easy marks.
Reading/Interpreting Scales becomes simple with practice. The more examples you try, the quicker you’ll recognise patterns and solve problems confidently in your 11+ exam.
exam tip :
Reading and interpreting scales is a common 11+ maths skill, and many marks are lost simply because students rush. Before answering any question, slow down and check what each small line represents. Once you know the value of each interval, the rest becomes easy. Remember—accurate calculation of the scale is the key to getting these questions right.
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