Calculating Volume

Goals:

To evaluate mathematical problems using the formulas for volume.

To recognize “perspective” in different shapes including cubes, pyramids, and cylinders.

Content Areas:

Math - volume

Art - perspective drawing of figures

Science - hypothesizing

Materials:

Cubes, pyramids, cylinders, prisms

Paper

Pencil

Worksheet” of problems to solve

Water

Procedure: (1 hour 15 minutes)

1) Pose a question to students: “How many pyramids can you fit in one cube?” Have students work in small groups for about 5 minutes to brainstorm ideas on how to solve the problem.

2) Bring students back to large group and show various volume formulas.
 

Volume of Cube = length x width x height

Volume of Prism/Cylinder = (area of) Base x height

Volume of Pyramid = 1/3 Base x height

Volume of Cone = 1/3 Base x height


3) Discuss how the models of cubes and pyramids can be drawn in perspective.

4) Give students specific problems concerning volumes of pyramids, cubes, cones, and cylinders. Ask students to write down the steps they use in each problem since they will be evaluated on the steps they use, not only the correct answer.

5) Have students check their answers by pouring water in cylinders, etc.

Assessment:

The means of assessment will involve completion of the volume worksheet. Criteria for success: The problems will be graded for accuracy - 80% or more correct will be considered acceptable. However, students will be given partial credit for documenting the correct steps for a problem even if they arrive at an incorrect numerical answer.

Students will be required to complete the Peer Evaluation of Group Work Rubric found at the beginning of this unit to determine whether all students took an active role within the group process.

Extensions:

Encourage students to calculate the volume of nearby swimming pools, rivers, lakes or oceans.

Encourage students to find the volume of glasses of milk, etc., at home and at school.

Making Waves - written by Jennifer Cannistra, Jamie Hanna, Michael LeRoy, & Kim Mongoven

This page was submitted by St. Norbert College Ocean Voyagers Program