An Introduction to Estimation and Measurements

Christeen Brown                Robert Fulton Elementary
                               5300 S. Hermitage St
                               Chicago IL 60609
                               (312) 535-9000

Objectives:

This lesson is designed for grade levels 3-5
Upon completion of the lesson, the students should be able to:
L Convert ounces to pounds
L Measure liquids
L Describe measurements in sizes
L Measure volumes
L Understand the importance of knowing and using the measurements
L Observe shapes and sizes in measurements
L Discover and apply rules for measuring liquids

Materials:

L Several containers of various sizes and shapes (vases, bottles, bowls or cups)
L Measuring utensils (teaspoon, tablespoon, measuring cups)
L Pancake mix
L Spatula
L Hot plate
L Funnel
L Liquid (water)
L Syrup (optional)

Recommended Strategy:

L Estimate the arrangement of containers in order from least to greatest.
L Use the 1 cup measurement tool to fill each container.  Count the amount of 
  full 1 cup measurements each container will hold without any of the liquid 
  spilling over.
L Record the amount of cups each container will hold.
L Discuss whether the original arrangement was accurate.
L Introduce the known measurements.
L Order the containers from smallest to largest (If original estimate was out of 
  order).
L Compare estimated answer to actual answers.
L Demonstrate the use of measurements by reading directions on a pancake box.
L Compare a pancake made of mix and water being measured accurately versus one 
  with mix and water just estimated.
 
Performance Assessment:

Demonstrate your use of measurements by cooking the mixture.  Observe the 
surface of the pancakes and taste the pancakes.  Discuss any differences 
discovered between the two types of mixes.  Record the consistency of both 
mixes.  Discuss any changes in the two pancakes after they are cooked.  Enjoy 
the project! 
This project is best used first thing in the morning.