Scientific investigations require the use of mathematical tools and concepts. In growth studies, measurement is central to quantifying change. Children must understand the principles of measure and the class must agree on common methods to ensure that data is comparable. With deep understanding of measure, students can extend their work in this and other growth contexts.

Other necessary mathematical tools include representations such as line graphs, scatter plots, and frequency displays. It is through these representations that students discern patterns in their data. These representations allow for comparisons and investigations that would not otherwise be possible.

Growth studies often include learning about important mathematical tools as well as using those tools to learn about patterns in organism growth.