4. Mineral Materials: Investigation 4.2
How can we measure the volumes of rocks?
2. Estimate and measure the volume of rocks
Small Groups 15 Mins Notebook
Distribute a tray of materials to each group. Explain that each pair of students will estimate and then measure the volume of one of the rocks on the tray; they will then combine their data with the data for the second rock collected by the other pair.
Students estimate the volume of their rock. They first build a rock replica using centimeter cubes. Students record their estimates in their notebooks specifying the unit of measurement (cubic centimeters) each time [Which rock has more volume?].
Students then check their estimates using the water displacement procedure devised by the class, recording the procedure and results in their notebooks.
Steps for Measuring the Volumes of the Rocks:
- Equalize the starting water levels and mark them on the containers.
- Place the rock in one container and mark the new water level after the water has been displaced.
- Add centimeter cubes to the second container, one at a time, counting as you go, until the water level matches the water level in the first container. The number of cubes is the measured volume.
