Step 11 Lesson 3

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Capacity

Objectives

To learn that there are 1000 millilitres (ml) to 1 litre (l) and thus to understand the metric system of measuring liquids.

To be able to convert millilitres to litres and vice versa, using decimals.

To make a connection between capacity and weight, in terms of how we covert between ml and l, g and kg.

Resources

Abacus 4 Textbook 1 | Squared paper

Today's Lesson

Main Activity

Discuss weight and the relationship between grams and kilograms. Introduce the concept of capacity, with millilitres and litres. We watched the video 'Length, mass and capacity' last week. Watch it again paying particular attention to ml and l this time.

What do we measure with ml and l? Ask your student to make the connection between 1000 g = 1 kg and 1000 ml = 1 l.

Turn to page 69 in Abacus 4 Textbook 1.

With the first question, tell your student to convert the amounts which are less than 1 litre in terms of decimals, for example, 0.25 l as well as 0 l 250 ml.

(Use your place value columns if this is difficult. Remember we are moving digits three places to the left if we are multiplying by 1000 – converting l to ml, and three digits to the right if we are dividing by 1000 – converting ml to l).

Therefore, each bottle holding less than a litre will have two equivalent answers.

As an alternative, watch the ‘Capacity’ video to understand how to use a number line to compare and convert litres and millilitres.

For Q3 – 8, once your student has established which container holds less (or has less capacity), simply place a ‘greater than’ or ‘less than’ (‘>’  or ‘<’) symbol in the space between. Tip: Convert both amounts into litres OR both amounts into ml and it will be easier to compare.

Ask your student to discuss the ‘Think’ question.