Surf for More Math

Lesson 4 - Comparing Masses

To encourage students to have fun on the Web while learning about Comparing Masses, here are some games and interactive activities they can do on their own or in pairs.

Goal

Use a pan balance to determine with item is heavier.

Instructions for Use

Jakers! lets students try to determine which animals are heavier.

To use Jakers!, drag the animals to the seesaw. See which ones are heavier.

Bunny Balance lets students estimate the mass of objects using nonstandard units.

To use Bunny Balance, drag the bunnies onto the seesaw. Try to make them balance.

Weigh it Up lets students measure, and record the mass of objects using nonstandard units.

To use Weigh it Up, click on the "+" to add a shape. Click on the "-" to remove a shape. Click on the "Check" button to see if the scales balance. To clear the scales, click the "Reset" button.

Pan Balance prompts students to use a pan balance to determine with item is heavier.

To use Pan Balance, place weights on each pan of the balance by dragging the shapes and releasing the mouse button. The "Count Items" button shows how many shapes are on the balance. The "Show Array" button shows how many shapes are on the balance in a row. The "Reset Balance" button clears the balance and keeps the weights the same. The "New Problem" button clears the balance and changes the weights.