In this activity, we will be learning to tell the time using clocks with Roman numerals. 

 

Here are two clocks.

 

                   

 

One has normal numbers, the other has Roman numerals.

They both show the same time.

 

The long blue hand is pointing to the 6 or VI, which is halfway round the clock, so the time will be:

Half-past

or

__:30.

 

The short red hand is pointing halfway between the 4 and the 5 or the IV and the V, so the time is:

Half-past four

or 

4:30

 

Let's try an example question together.

 

Example

What time does this clock show?

 

                    

 

Answer

The long blue hand is pointing to the 6 or VI, which is half of the way round the clock, so the time will be:

Half-past

or

__:30

 

The short red hand is pointing halfway between the 2 and the 3 or the II and the III, so the time is:

Half-past two

or 

2:30

 

Now you've seen Roman numeral clocks in action, it's time to try out your skills on some questions.