Using the State Curriculum: Mathematics, Grade 1

Triple-Venn diagram (see headings in example); a variety of objects

Students sit in a circle. Review the three types of measurement by asking students to tell what they know about measuring length, weight, and capacity. Allow about 3-5 minutes for this discussion. Place objects on the floor so students can easily see them. (There should be an object for each student.) Ask students to choose an object. Then place three large hoops (e.g., hula hoops) on the floor to form a triple overlapping Venn diagram. Prior experiences using a triple overlapping Venn diagram is recommended before completing this lesson with students. (See example.)

Place a label on each circle: length, weight, and capacity. Tell students to think about what could be measured on the object they chose to find out about its size. Students take section of the diagram that indicates how the object could be measured.

For example, a student places a block in the section that overlaps between the length and weight circles. Remaining students agree with student's placement by saying, "You can measure how long a side on the block is." and "We can measure how heavy it is." (However, capacity cannot be measured on the block because it is a closed object and nothing can be placed inside the block.)

Note: The middle section of the Venn diagram will contain objects that can be measured by length, weight, and capacity.

When each student places his or her object in a section, ask the remaining students to tell whether they think the object is placed correctly and why they think so.