Mathematics
Grade 3
15 min
Compare customary units by multiplying
Compare customary units by multiplying
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Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify the relationship between larger and smaller customary units of length and liquid volume.
Use a two-column table to show the relationship between two customary units (e.g., feet and inches).
Use multiplication to convert a measurement from a larger customary unit to a smaller customary unit.
Compare two measurements in different customary units by first converting one of them.
Solve one-step word problems that involve converting and comparing customary units.
Explain why multiplication is the correct operation when converting from a larger unit to a smaller unit.
Have you ever wondered which is longer, a 3-foot snake or a 30-inch lizard? 🐍 Let's learn how to find out for sure!
In this lesson, you will learn how to change bigger units, like...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Customary UnitsThe units of measurement most commonly used in the United States, like inches, feet, cups, and gallons.A ruler measures length in inches and feet.
ConvertTo change a measurement from one unit to another without changing its size or value.We can convert 2 feet into 24 inches. The length is the same, but the unit is different.
LengthA measurement of how long something is from end to end.The length of a new crayon is about 3 inches.
Liquid VolumeThe amount of space a liquid takes up.A small carton of milk from the cafeteria holds about 1 cup of milk.
Larger UnitA unit that measures bigger amounts or longer distances.A yard is a larger unit than a foot.
Smaller UnitA unit that measures smaller amounts or shorter distances.An inch is a smaller unit than a f...
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Core Formulas
The Conversion Formula
(Number of Larger Units) × (Number of Smaller Units in 1 Larger Unit) = Total Number of Smaller Units
Use this formula when you know the measurement in a larger unit (like feet) and want to find out its size in a smaller unit (like inches). You multiply because it takes many small units to make one big unit.
Key Length Conversions
1 \text{ foot} = 12 \text{ inches} \quad | \quad 1 \text{ yard} = 3 \text{ feet}
These are important facts you need to memorize to convert units of length. A ruler can help you remember the first fact!
Key Liquid Volume Conversions
1 \text{ pint} = 2 \text{ cups} \quad | \quad 1 \text{ quart} = 2 \text{ pints} \quad | \quad 1 \text{ gallon} = 4 \text{ quarts}
These are important facts for converting units that measure...
4 more steps in this tutorial
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Challenging
A recipe for punch needs 1 gallon of juice. You have 1 quart of juice already. How many more quarts do you need?
A.1 quart
B.2 quarts
C.3 quarts
D.4 quarts
Challenging
Which measurement represents the smallest amount of liquid?
A.1 gallon
B.3 quarts
C.7 pints
D.15 cups
Challenging
To find out how many inches are in 3 yards, what is the correct first step to take?
A.Multiply 3 by 12.
B.Divide 12 by 3.
C.Add 3 and 12.
D.Multiply 3 by 3.
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