Learning physics requires an understanding of basic concepts such as scales, proportions, areas and volumes. The understanding of these foundations is in no way trivial, and should not be treated as mere prerequisite for the construction of more elaborate physical concepts. Conducting activities that address these foundations is critical for learning in physics, whatever the level of education in which the student is. Aiming to discuss aspects related to the learning of concepts considered foundations for learning in physics, problems are proposed involving the imaginary k1 ngdom of Lilliput, described in the most famous works of Jonathan Swift, Gulliver's Travels. Swift's narrative presents various circumstances which, though fictional, are very rich and allow us to explore the foundations of an interesting way, and especially addressing a wide variety of situations involving the main difficulties presented by the students in the study of basic physical concepts.
scales; proportions; areas and volumes
