T4 Mass

MA2-1WM uses appropriate terminology to describe, and symbols to represent, mathematical ideas

MA2-3WM checks the accuracy of a statement and explains the reasoning

MA2-12MG measures, records, compares and estimates the masses of objects using kilograms and grams

Now collect together different materials such as flour, gravel, dirt, cotton wool, bark chips, leaves, beads, etc

Fill a cup with one of your materials. Then tip the contents into a ziplock bag and seal it. Do the same with 4 other materials. Compare two bags at a time by holding one in each hand, and deciding which is heavier. Compare all the bags until you can put them in order from lightest to heaviest.

Which is the lightest?

Which is the heaviest?

How do you know?

Did any bags seem to be about the same mass?

Then check your suggestion by weighing the bags on the scales, and create a chart for your results.

Was your original order correct, or did you need to change the order of some items?

Discuss:

Each bag contained a cupful. Why did the masses differ if the materials all took up the same space?

To think about: Which would weigh more - a kilogram of feathers or a kilogram of bricks? Explain.

Complete this chart.

We measure the mass of objects by using grams and kilograms.

It takes one thousand grams (1 000 grams) to weigh the same as 1 kilogram.

Have a go at completing some of these worksheets that your teacher gives you.