11+ Maths: Converting Units of Measure
21 October 2026
Why unit conversion matters
Converting units of measure is a key skill in 11+ maths. Children need to switch between units like centimetres and metres, or millilitres and litres, both in exams and real life.
Key insight: Understanding unit conversion helps children solve a wide range of maths problems with confidence.
Step-by-step approach
Start by identifying the units you are converting from and to. For example, centimetres to metres. Remember the basic relationships: 100 centimetres in a metre, 1000 millilitres in a litre, and so on.
Worked example: centimetres to metres
Question: How many metres is 250 centimetres
Step 1: Know that 1 metre equals 100 centimetres
Step 2: Divide the number of centimetres by 100 to find the number of metres
Step 3: 250 ÷ 100 = 2.5
The correct answer is 2.5 metres.
Tips for supporting your child
Encourage your child to write out each step and check their work. Practising with different units, such as grams to kilograms or millilitres to litres, builds confidence and accuracy.
Why practice is important
Regular practice with unit conversions prepares children for 11+ questions and everyday situations. It also strengthens their general maths skills.
