By using their thumbs.

Before our standard measurement systems were established, people used the distance from the tip of the thumb to the knuckle as a measuring unit known as a digit, which equals approximately one inch. (Digit also refers to numerical place value.) Other parts of the body were also used as measuring devices:

• the width of the base of an adult hand = approximately four inches
• the length of an adult foot (probably male) = about 11.5 inches
• with the arm outstretched on an adult, from the tip of the nose to the end of the thumb = approximately one yard

Ask students to look at the photo or videos of Horizontal Column of Five Squares Excentric II on this web site and, in small groups, estimate the size of one square. Estimates may vary. (Click on Art at the Museum for actual dimensions.)

Have each group cut a square of brown paper the size they estimate for one square. Record measurements in body units and with a ruler. Bring the paper squares to the McNay and lay them out on the grass around the sculpture’s pond. Compare the paper squares with the actual sculpture to see which ones match best.

Conduct additional studies of solid geometry using this sculpture.

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