Mass and capacity - Add and subtract capacity - Planning

Year 3 students are set to explore the concept of capacity during their Summer Measure lessons, with a particular focus on adding and subtracting different volumes in litres and millilitres. The lesson begins with a review of relevant vocabulary such as 'scale', 'capacity', 'litres', 'millilitres', and comparison symbols. Using differentiated sheets, teaching slides, Base 10 blocks, place value charts, and mini whiteboards, the class will engage in a variety of activities designed to solidify their understanding of volume and capacity. Students will be encouraged to discuss and convert volumes, using talk partner strategies to aid their learning.

The lesson includes practical activities, such as using Base 10 and place value charts to add volumes, and applying their learning to real-life scenarios like making summer punch, which requires them to calculate the total liquids needed. They will also complete tables using subtraction to find the remaining capacities. Throughout the lesson, key questions prompt students to think about the relationship between millilitres and litres, and the methods they can use to manipulate these measurements. To address common misconceptions, the lesson emphasises the importance of accurate calculation and the understanding that 1000ml is equivalent to 1l. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the skills learned, ensuring that students recognise how to add and subtract capacities and volumes, and how to apply these skills in practical contexts. Differentiated learning outcomes cater to varying levels of understanding, from working towards expected levels to achieving greater depth in solving word problems involving recipes and measurements.