Unit Plan 32 (Grade 3 Math): Measurement Megamix—Time, Mass, Volume, Length
Solve real-world Grade 3 measurement problems by modeling elapsed time, mass, volume, and inch-based lengths with timelines, diagrams, and line plots, selecting appropriate tools, labeling units clearly, and checking reasonableness.
Focus: Solve real-world measurement problems blending elapsed time, grams/kilograms, liters, and inch measurements with clear models, units, and reasonableness checks.
Grade Level: 3
Subject Area: Mathematics (Measurement & Data Integration)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students integrate key measurement ideas: finding elapsed time, solving mass and liquid volume problems, and measuring lengths to the nearest 1/2 and 1/4 inch to create line plots. Emphasis is on selecting the right tool, labeling units, and explaining why answers make sense.
Essential Questions
- How do I model and solve elapsed time accurately across hour boundaries?
- Which measurement tool and unit fit the situation (scale, liter container, ruler, clock)?
- How do precise labels, units, and representations make my solution convincing?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Use number line timelines and clock models to compute elapsed time in word problems.
- Solve mass (g, kg) and liquid volume (L) problems using addition, subtraction, and two-step reasoning.
- Measure lengths to the nearest 1/2 and 1/4 inch, record data, and construct line plots.
- Choose appropriate tools and units, label work precisely, and justify reasonableness.
- Communicate solutions with clear representations (timelines, bar/tape diagrams, tables, line plots).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 3
- 3.MD.1: Tell and write time to the minute; solve elapsed time word problems.
- 3.MD.2: Measure and estimate masses (g, kg) and liquid volumes (L); solve one- and two-step problems.
- 3.MD.4: Generate line plots of measurement data measured to the nearest 1/2 and 1/4 inch; solve problems using the data.
- Mathematical Practices: MP.4 (Model with mathematics), MP.5 (Use appropriate tools strategically).
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can draw a timeline or use a clock model to find elapsed time and label start/end times.
- I can choose the right tool (scale, liter container, ruler) and keep units (g, kg, L, inch) accurate.
- I can make a line plot from measured data and use it to answer questions.
- I can check if my answer is reasonable and explain why.