NCTM Math Standards Covered in Plane Capacity
- Measurement
- Numbers and Number Relationships
- Computation and Estimation
- Problem Solving
Objectives
After successfully completing this activity:
- Given a capacity (1,650 lbs., 300 ft., etc.) and the amount of capacity already filled, students will be able to determine remaining capacity.
- Given a capacity and a unit (150 lb. people, 5 ft. boxes, etc.), students will be able to determine how many units can fit within the capacity.
List of Materials for Group Activity
- Masking tape (for marking off the room)
- Yardstick
- Rulers
Generating Problems for Additional Practice
After doing the Group Activity, ask students to figure out how many storage units can fit into the 3 foot x 3 foot space if the units are:
- one inch by one inch
- one foot by one foot
- three inches by two inches
- five inches by three inches
Suggestions for Additional Activities
Invite someone who designs planes to talk about how they use math to determine the best way to create enough space for passengers and cargo.
We encourage teachers to send us examples of additional problems or activities that they have found useful; we will then post these on this page. E-mail us with your suggestions at planemath@infouse.com.
