3 Bottles - Capacity Problems

Here's a unique Problem Solving activity set in a meaningful context.

This is another from our mathsticks+ member, Jason. He explains that it was designed to offer challenge to his Y4 class. The activity enabled them to solve a range of problems and discuss the strategies they used.

Basically the children have a series of cards with capacities indicated on them. Here's a sample:

They choose a card, and then work in pairs (or small groups) to discuss how they can create the quantity by using three containers of differing sizes (1.35L, 900ml and 330ml).

It may be that they have to combine multiple bottles, or even use the difference between the capacities. For example:

It is quite simple to create 660ml

= fill the 330ml bottle twice

= 330 x 2

However, creating 4170ml is more difficult

= fill the 900ml bottle 5 times, then decant 330ml

= 900 x 5 - 330

The download includes an explanatory sheet and the set of 15 problem cards ranging from Easy and Tricky to Mind Expanding (the download also includes possible solutions).

As always, we would really like to hear what you think of this in the comments and would appreciate all your tweets, Likes and Google Pluses if you enjoy it!