Lesson Plan Title:
Grade 1 Mathematics Lesson Plan: Comparing Mass
Materials Needed:
– Balance scales
– Various objects of different masses (e.g., erasers, pencils, small toys, books)
– “Heavier” and “Lighter” labels
– Worksheets for guided practice
– Coloured sticky notes
– Digital scale (if available)
– Model mass units (e.g., small weights or beans)
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
1. Understand the concept of mass and how it can be measured.
2. Compare the mass of different objects using terms like “heavier” and “lighter.”
3. Use a balance scale correctly to compare the mass of two objects.
Vocabulary:
1. Mass – The amount of matter in an object.
2. Balance scale – A tool used to measure the mass of objects.
3. Heavier – Having more mass.
4. Lighter – Having less mass.
5. Compare – To look at two objects to see the differences or similarities.
Previous Learning:
Students have previously learned to identify and name common objects and have basic skills in counting and comparing sizes (bigger/smaller, longer/shorter).
Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:
1. Challenge: Difficulty in using the balance scale.
Solution: Demonstrate its use several times and provide step-by-step guidance during practice.
2. Challenge: Confusion between heavier and lighter.
Solution: Use clear visual aids and labels and encourage hands-on practice to reinforce the terms.
Beginning Activities (4 minutes):
1. Greet students and briefly review the concepts of “bigger/smaller” and “longer/shorter”—(2 minutes).
2. Introduce the learning objectives and explain the importance of learning about mass—(2 minutes).
Middle Activities (32 minutes):
1. Direct Instruction: Demonstrate how a balance scale works using two objects (e.g., eraser and pencil). Show how we can see which object is heavier and which is lighter—(10 minutes).
2. Guided Practice: Divide students into small groups. Provide each group with a balance scale and pairs of objects. Instruct them to compare the mass of items and use “heavier” and “lighter” labels—(10 minutes).
3. Independent Practice: Hand out worksheets where students draw or stick pictures of items in the appropriate column (heavier/lighter). Use coloured sticky notes to give a tactile element—(10 minutes).
4. Group Discussion: Gather students to discuss their findings and correct any misunderstandings—(2 minutes).
End Activities (4 minutes):
1. Exit Ticket Activity: Ask students to think of one item from the classroom and predict if it would be heavier or lighter than an eraser. Have them share their predictions with a partner—(4 minutes).
Assessment and Checks for Understanding:
1. Observation during Guided Practice to ensure students correctly use balance scales.
2. Review Independent Practice worksheets to assess understanding of comparing mass.
3. Exit Tickets to check if students can apply the concept in a new context.
Differentiation Strategies for Diverse Learners:
1. Scaffolding: Provide additional support such as visual aids and one-on-one assistance for students struggling with the concepts.
2. Extension: Have advanced students explore combining objects and comparing the mass of groups of items.
3. Use different senses by incorporating tactile (touch), visual (sight), and auditory (hearing) methods to cater to various learning styles.
Teaching Notes:
– Emphasise hands-on activities to make abstract concepts more concrete.
– Ensure balance scales are in good working condition before the lesson.
– Use real-life examples and classroom items to make learning relatable.
– Be mindful of students with disabilities and adapt activities to ensure full participation.
By the end of this lesson, students should confidently use the terms “heavier” and “lighter” and have a basic understanding of measuring mass using balance scales.