Max Maths, Year 3, Learn together, Converting between grams and kilograms (1)

In a Year 3 mathematics lesson, students are introduced to the concept of converting between grams and kilograms, which is a fundamental aspect of understanding mass in the metric system. The lesson uses practical examples to illustrate the relationship between the two units of measurement. For instance, Padma places ten 100g masses on a weighing scale, and the children observe that the combined mass of these is 1,000g. This activity visually demonstrates that 1,000g is equivalent to 1kg, making the abstract concept of conversion more concrete for young learners. The weighing scale provides a clear representation of how multiple smaller units (grams) add up to form a larger unit (kilogram).

Building on this understanding, the lesson then presents a real-world example: the mass of a watermelon. The watermelon's mass is given as 2kg 300g. To help students grasp the conversion, this mass is broken down into its constituent parts—1kg plus 1kg plus three lots of 100g. This step-by-step breakdown reinforces the idea that kilograms and grams can be combined to express the mass of objects and that there are 1,000 grams in a single kilogram. Through these hands-on and relatable examples, students learn to confidently convert and understand the relationship between grams and kilograms.