Look at amount, not just height
Measure with the same cup and distinguish the current amount from capacity.
Start with the activity ↓Does a higher water level mean more water?
Count cupfuls using the same cup. A narrow container can give a higher level without changing the amount, if nothing is added or spilled.
You pour two cupfuls into a container. To count cupfuls, use the same cup filled to the same level each time. A partial cup and a full cup are not equal units.
Pour the water into a narrow, tall container. The surface rises higher, but no water was added or lost. Pouring it back checks that the amount stayed the same.
Now ask how many cupfuls fill the container. A container that holds six cupfuls may currently contain two. The current amount differs from capacity: how much it can hold when full.
Two large cupfuls and two small cupfuls can differ. State the unit as well as the count. On real containers, L means litre and mL means millilitre.
Listen one paragraph at a time
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Now check it yourself
Add or remove equal cupfuls. Change the container's shape without changing the amount, then compare the water level and cup count.
2 equal cupfuls are inside. The capacity is six cupfuls.
Assume no spill or addition while transferring, and equal cupfuls. Both illustrated containers hold six of the same cupfuls.
Try it away from the screen
You can transfer dry blocks using the same small cup instead of water. Use real water with an adult and away from electronics.
Can you explain another example?
Check your idea 1
Check your idea 2
Can you explain it in a new setting?
Distinguish water level, current amount and container capacity.
Speak, point or draw on paper. Check whether your own explanation includes these ideas.
Continue reading, or pause here
Next, measure what passes between two moments: elapsed time.