Skill: Compare masses informally
Explanation and Free Practice Resources
Mass is the amount of matter in an object and can be compared directly by determining which of two objects is heavier, which is lighter, or whether they have the same mass, including through a balance or hefting. The comparison concerns mass rather than an object’s size, shape, or appearance, establishing the foundation for measuring mass with standard units and interpreting balance relationships later.
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Detailed Explanation: Compare masses informally
Mass tells how much matter is in an object. To compare mass, find out which object is heavier, lighter, or has the same mass. Do not decide by size or appearance.
Example: Which is heavier: a large empty box or a small bag of marbles?
- Put the box on one side of a balance.
- Put the bag of marbles on the other side.
- Look at the balance. The side that goes down has the heavier object.
- The side with the bag of marbles goes down.
So, the bag of marbles is heavier than the box. The box is lighter than the bag of marbles.
If both sides stayed level, the objects would have the same mass.
Learn by doing: Compare masses informally
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Practice:
Measurement - Compare Mass - Heavier or Lighter
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Download/Modify Free Grade 1 'Compare masses informally' Worksheet
Print this free 'Compare masses informally' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Measurement - Compare Mass - Heavier or Lighter
- Measurement - Compare Mass - Order by Mass
- Measurement - Compare Mass - Which is Heavier or Lighter
- Measurement - Compare Mass - Pictures Heavier or Lighter
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