Lesson plan

3. Determine Dimensions (A)

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teaches Common Core State Standards CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.5b http://corestandards.org/Math/Content/5/MD/C/5/b
teaches Common Core State Standards CCSS.Math.Practice.MP8 http://corestandards.org/Math/Practice/MP8

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Lesson objective: Apply volume formula to determine dimensions of a right rectangular prism when volume is given. 

This lesson provides an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and understanding of the volume formula length by width by height to a real-life situation. Students are asked to determine the possible dimensions of a pencil box when they know the volume. Students are also asked to think about the appropriateness of the dimesnions based on pencil length to choose the best design. 

Key Concept students will use: 

  • The volume of a right rectangular prism is equal to the product of its length, width, and height, which is equal to the number of unit cubes that can be packed into it.

Skills students will use:

  • understand volume (Grade 5, Unit 1)
  • associative property (Grade 3, Unit 9)

Students engage in Mathematical Practice 8 (Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning) as they compute and apply generalized formulas to determine the dimensions of a right rectangular prism.   

Key vocabulary: 

  • dimensions
  • factor
  • right rectangular prism
  • volume

Special materials needed:

  • graph paper
  • isometric dot paper
  • unit cubes
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