Mass and capacity - Compare capacities - Presentation

In a series of engaging activities, students are introduced to the concept of comparing capacities using the comparison symbols <, >, and =. The lesson focuses on understanding the volume of liquids in different containers and determining which has a greater or lesser capacity. For example, students are asked to compare 1 litre with 1200 millilitres and use their knowledge to complete sentences that involve calculating the equivalent capacities of cans and orange juice or water in millilitres. These exercises help students to visualise and quantify the volume of liquids, enhancing their understanding of measurements and conversions between units such as litres and millilitres.

The lesson continues with more complex tasks that require students to use their reasoning skills. They are presented with pairs of containers and must decide which is more full by applying the comparison symbols correctly. One activity challenges them to determine if Tia, with three 500ml bottles of water, or Esin, with a single bottle containing 1.5 litres, has more water. The answer reveals that both have the same amount, exemplifying the practical application of comparing and equating different measures of capacity. Further reasoning exercises involve scenarios like dividing a litre of water among friends and assessing statements about the relative fullness of containers based on their appearance. This comprehensive approach to comparing capacities ensures that students not only learn to calculate volumes but also develop critical thinking skills in the context of mass and capacity.