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Estimating
the capacity of a container can't always be accomplished
just by looking at it. An object's shape in relation
to its size can lead you to estimate incorrectly.
This experiment combines estimation and experimentation.
| Materials |
| • |
6
clear containers in a variety of shapes and
sizes (jars, bottles, glasses, etc.)
|
| • |
2
gallons of water, divided into 2 containers
(You may choose to add food coloring to make
the water easier to see.)
|
| • |
Large
measuring cup or beakers
|
| • |
Paper,
pencils |
Step
1: Have the class write numbers 1 -
6 on their papers so that they may record their
estimates.
Step
2: Pour the gallon of water into each
of the containers, filling each of the 6 containers
to a different level. Fill a little or a lot,
make each one different.
Step
3: Have the class take turns estimating
the how may ounces each container holds. Ask
which container they think holds the most. Which
one holds the least? Have the students record
their estimates on paper.
Step
4: One by one, pour the contents of
each container into a measuring cup and note
the true volume of each container. Have the students
compare the results to their estimates.
How
close did the class come to accurately estimating
the volume? You probably discovered that in some
cases the oddly shaped containers made you think
there was either more or less liquid than the container
actually held.
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