Select and use appropriate tools to measure attributes of objects.

Convert among different-sized standard measurement units (i.e., km, m, cm; kg, g; lb, oz.; l, ml; hr, min, sec) within a given measurement system (e.g., convert 5 cm to 0.05 m), and use these conversions in solving multi-step, real world problems.

Make a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit (1/2, 1/4, 1/8). Use operations on fractions for this grade to solve problems involving information presented in line plots.

1. Think about the conversion factor.
2. Consider the relative sizes of the units. Which is bigger? Which is smaller?
3. Use multiplication or division to determine your final answer, or use a table.

How many quarts would equal 2 gallons?

1. Quarts are smaller than gallons, so that means I will ned more than 2 quarts to equal these 2 gallons.
2. The conversion factor is 2 quarts = 1 gallon.
3. I need 2 quarts to equal my first gallon, and 2 quarts to equal my second gallon. That's 4 quarts!

How many gallons are in 4 quarts?

1. Gallons are bigger than quarts, so that means I will need fewer than 4 gallons to equal these 4 quarts.
2. The conversion factor is 1 gallon = 2 quarts.
3. I need 1 gallon for every 2 quarts. I need 1 gallon to equal my first 2 quarts, and I need 1 more gallon to equal my second 2 quarts. That's 2 gallons in total!

Making a conversion table can help show the relationships between units, and the patterns that emerge. This can be a great strategy for students who are not ready to do conversions.