Lesson plan

9. Solve problems involving volume of solid figures (A)

  • From K-5 Math Companion Curriculum
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teaches Common Core State Standards 5.MD.C.3.b http://corestandards.org/Math/Content/5/MD/C/3/b
teaches Common Core State Standards 5.MD.C.4 http://corestandards.org/Math/Content/5/MD/C/4
teaches Common Core State Standards MP3 http://corestandards.org/Math/Practice/MP3
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Lesson objective: Solve problems involving volume of solid figures

This lesson provides an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and understanding of finding volume of solid figures to a real-life situation. Students are asked to help a toy company determine the best option for shipping toy car packages.  

Key Concept students will use: 

  • A solid figure which can be packed without gaps or overlaps using n unit cubes is said to have a volume of n cubic units.

Skills students will use:

  • packing rectangular prisms with unit cubes to find volume
  • decompose and recompose solid figures by partitioning figures into layers

Students engage in Mathematical Practice 3 (construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others) as they justify their choice for the best box option for shipping by explaining their reasoning and using concrete evidence to support their thinking. 

Key vocabulary: 

  • solid figure
  • unit cubes
  • cubic units
  • feet cubes
  • cubic feet
  • volume

Special materials needed:

  • unit cubes