Fun with Volume

 Last week we began our math unit on geometry.  To end the year, the students will work with three-dimensional figures, particularly rectangular prisms.  They will build on their understanding of area and relate it to volume.

To begin the unit, the students explored the concept of volume and learned that it is measured by cubic units.  I began by building rectangular prisms using centimeter cubes.  The students were able to count the cubes to determine the volume of the figure.  They also understood the relationship between area of the base layer and the volume of the figure.  

The students then expanded their understanding by building their own rectangular prisms.  Pairs of students participated in a match mine activity in which they build their own prisms using centimeter cubes.  Their goal was to use content specific vocabulary (volume, base, length, width, height, layers, etc.) to help their partner build the same rectangular prisms without looking.  They were able to realize that giving specific dimensions led to more success than just giving a volume.  There are multiple ways to create a prism with a given volume. This activity prompted great discussions among the students. 

We came up with a new word as we launched this unit...plearning (playing and learning).  Nothing makes me happier than my students having fun while learning!