Roman Numerals: Symbols and the Two Big Rules
3-5
1
Finding the Volume of a Rectangular Prism
Lesson Details
Grade Level
6-8
Duration (minutes)
2
Summary
Grade 6-8 students learn how to find the volume of a rectangular prism using the formula V = length × width × height, working through a real example (an 8×5×4 cm storage box with a volume of 160 cm³). The lesson also demonstrates the commutative property — showing that multiplying the dimensions in any order gives the same result — and connects the concept to real-world situations like fish tanks, moving boxes, and swimming pools.
Student Worksheet: Finding the Volume of a Rectangular Prism
Teacher Note: Students can watch the video lesson above and answer the questions. Click the “Teacher Answer Key” dropdown below when you are ready to review the solutions!
Key Concepts:
• Volume: How much space a three-dimensional shape takes up, measured in cubic units.
• The Formula: V = length × width × height.
• Commutative Property: Multiplying the three dimensions in any order gives the same volume.
Instructions: Read each question carefully and write your answer in the space provided.
- Question 1: A storage box measures 8 cm long, 5 cm wide, and 4 cm tall. What is its volume?
- Question 2: What units should you use to label a volume answer?
- Question 3: Multiply the storage box’s dimensions in a different order (width × height × length). Do you get the same answer?
- Question 4: Name two real-world situations where knowing an object’s volume would be useful.
- Question 5: A fish tank is 10 cm long, 6 cm wide, and 5 cm tall. What is its volume?
- Question 6: Why do you think the order you multiply the dimensions in doesn’t change the final answer?
Click to reveal Teacher Answer Key
1. 8 × 5 = 40, 40 × 4 = 160 cubic centimeters.
2. Cubic units (e.g., cubic centimeters, cubic inches).
3. Yes — 5 × 4 × 8 = 160, the same answer, because of the commutative property.
4. Any two: how much water a fish tank holds, how much fits in a moving box, how much water a swimming pool holds.
5. 10 × 6 = 60, 60 × 5 = 300 cubic centimeters.
6. Answers will vary; accept any reasonable explanation referencing that multiplication can be done in any order and still reach the same product.
Disclaimer: This worksheet was generated with AI assistance based on original video content. It is intended for educational reference only. Teachers are encouraged to review and adjust questions to fit their curriculum standards before classroom use.
🎯 Extension Activity: Measure a real box or container at home or in the classroom (in centimeters or inches), then calculate its volume using V = length × width × height.