This unit introduces students to the relationship between balance and weight. Experiences with a beam balance introduce students to the concept that amount of weight, position of weight, and position of the fulcrum affect balance. Work with an equal-arm balance challenges students to place objects in serial order on the basis of weight and to appreciate that weighing is the process of balancing an object against a certain number of standard objects. In the final lessons, students turn to a series of problem-solving investigations with the equal-arm balance and cupfuls of four different foods. These activities provide an opportunity to explore the relationship between weight, density, and volume.
Balancing & Weighing Storyline (pdf)
Supplemental Literacy Lists
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