Measuring Capacity Using Non-Standard Units - Worksheet

In this engaging maths activity, students are introduced to the concept of measuring capacity through a hands-on class exercise. The task involves using a variety of everyday containers—such as plastic cups, margarine tubs, jam jars, and yoghurt pots—as non-standard units of measure to determine how much water it takes to fill a jug. Before beginning the actual measurement, children are encouraged to make an educated guess, or estimate, the number of each container type needed to reach the jug's capacity. This process of estimating followed by measuring helps students to develop their understanding of volume and capacity in a practical and interactive way.

The worksheet is structured with a table where students can record their estimates alongside the actual measurements for each type of container. By comparing their guesses to the real values, children learn to refine their ability to approximate and measure. The activity not only teaches mathematical concepts but also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving as students work through the task. This resource, which is designed to make learning about capacity fun and accessible, is part of a collection of maths teaching resources provided by Teacher-of-Primary.co.uk.