Reading a Scale: Step-by-Step Example
23 October 2026
Understanding how to read a scale is an important skill for 11+ maths. It helps children measure and compare values accurately, whether on a ruler, measuring jug or diagram. This clear example shows exactly how to work out what number an arrow points to on a scale.
Worked example
Question: What number does the arrow point to on this scale?
The scale starts at 0 and ends at 10. There are 10 spaces between 0 and 10.
Step 1: Work out the value of each space.
10 divided by 10 spaces = 1. Each space is worth 1.
Step 2: Count the spaces from 0 to the arrow. The arrow is on the 7th space.
Step 3: Multiply the number of spaces by the value of each space.
7 × 1 = 7
The correct answer is 7.
Click or tap on the number line to answer
After seeing this example, your child will recognise how to break down a scale and find the value at any point. The next step is to practise similar questions, so they feel confident reading scales in different maths problems.
