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316 Packing a Suitcase

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Teacher Notes


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Activity OutcomeUsing comparative language associated with volume (fits, empty, nearly full...). Estimating and measuring the volume of a suitcase by observing the number of informal objects (clothes) that fit inside (all, nearly all, half, some most...).
MTS Set 1
NSW Curriculum MS3 Volume and Capacity
Topics Direct Measure
Understand Units
Estimate
Volume and Capacity
Keywords Volume and Capacity
GroupingSmall groups
Resources5 or 6 suitcases of different sizes and shapes. Dress-up clothes for 5 or 6 groups (towels and sheets would also help fill the suitcases).
Lesson Notes
  • Children require the opportunity to freely play with and explore filling containers such as suitcases with clothes, school bags, sporting equipment...
  • Provide children with a copy of the activity sheet and ask the focus questions.
  • Also ask questions such as: Is it better to fold/roll clothes before they go in a suitcase? Why? Can you show me how to fold/roll a shirt? How should you stack clothes in a suitcase? Can you show me? Which clothes will take up the most space? Least space? Can you tell me about a time you had to help pack clothes in a case?
  • Direct children to the activity sheet and ask: Suitcases often look much the same but are different sizes. Can you draw a picture to show 3 suitcases that look the same but are different sizes?
  • Move around the class and ask: This is your big suitcase. Is it longer/wider/deeper than the other cases? Which suitcase has the most space? Least space?
  • Place children into groups, each with a small suitcase and a set of dress-up clothes. Direct groups to the 'Find Out' question and ask: Will all the clothes pack into the suitcase? Decide as a group and then put a tick in the box to show what your group thinks.
  • Direct groups to fold/roll clothes neatly to pack them into the suitcase.
  • Provide the opportunity for groups to share findings around the class.
ReflectionsAsk: How well did you get on as a group packing your suitcase? Do you think your group packed the clothes neatly? What would your parents think of your packing?
Integration Links English: Speaking and Listening: Retelling a story about packing a suitcase.

Internet Links Not applicable
AnswersNot applicable