Prompted to measure, attempts to cover a rectangular space with physical tiles. However, doesn't organize or structure the 2D space without considerable perceptual support, such as a grid that outlines each individual unit. In drawing (or imagining and pointing to count squares as units of area), represents only certain aspects of that structure, such as approximately rectangular shapes next to one another. Makes comparison areas based on simple, direct comparisons (e.g., a child places one sheet of paper over another piece of paper to select the sheet that covers more space).