Developed by Shelby B.
Edited by Maggie M.
Essential Question
What is the relationship between the size of a container and the amount of matter you can fill it with?
Background Knowledge
Students should understand:
- Matter has mass and takes up space.
- The amount of space an object takes up is volume.
- The volume of an object stays the same, even if moved.
Materials
- ¼ cup for scooping
- A 2-cup glass/container
- Rice
- Popped popcorn
- Dried noodles
- Prediction table (see below in “Resources”)
- Pencil/pen
Safety Protocol
None
Activity Procedure
Step 1: Gather all materials and set up a prediction table (see below in “Resources”).
Do you think larger materials will take less scoops to fill?
Step 2: Choose your first food item (either rice, popped popcorn, or dried noodles) and make a prediction on your prediction table:
How many scoops will it take to fill the container/glass? How does the size of each material relate to the number of scoops?
Step 3: Begin the scoops test. Carefully count the number of scoops it takes to fill your container. The scooper should be filled to the brim for each scoop. Stop once your container is completely full.
How many scoops did you get? Record result on your table. Was it more or less than you predicted?
Step 4: Now perform the test on the other two food items. Remember to record predictions before each test. As you perform these tests, pay close attention to the size of each individual material. Record your results.
Do the larger materials take less scoops? Do the number of scoops differ for each item?
Step 5: Once you have completed all three tests, look back at your table.
What do you notice about the number of scoops? Did they differ for each item?
Step 6: With parent/guardian permission, share the results of your activity on social media using #AUHomeWorks!
What is one conclusion we can draw from the scoops test about volume?
Resources
Prediction Table:
| Material | Prediction | Result |
| 1. Popcorn | ||
| 2. Rice | ||
| 3. Noodles |