Everyday Math 4.2

Every year I have the same sinking feeling when I assign Everyday Math Home Links 4.2 to my students. The concept is nonstandard measurement and the assignment requires that students use their hands to measure the length and width of their beds. Every year I get the same question, "What if you don't have a bed?"

This year I decided to head off this problem by telling students they can measure something else with their hands: the kitchen table, a sofa, a chair, etc.

Still makes me sad.