Unit 6, Lesson 3
Metric Conversion and Multiplication by Powers of 10
Grade 5
Preparation
Lesson Purpose
The purpose of this lesson is for students to convert from a larger metric length unit to a smaller metric length unit. Students observe patterns when different numbers are multiplied by 10, by 100, or by 1,000.
Lesson Narrative
In this lesson, students apply place-value reasoning to convert between different metric lengths. Students notice patterns in whole-number and decimal products when a number is multiplied by a power of 10 (MP7). This builds on the previous lesson in which students studied powers of 10. This is the first of several lessons that focus on metric units, specifically length, which all differ by powers of 10. The contexts for the first two lessons come from different events in track and field. This lesson focuses on the standing broad jump and longer distance runs.
- Representation
- MLR8
- Generalize (orally and in writing) the factor needed to convert from a larger metric length unit to a smaller metric length unit.
- Let’s notice patterns in metric measurements.
Required Preparation
None
Teacher Reflection Questions
Reflect on your experience with the Number Talk routines in the curriculum. What questions have you asked to connect students’ thinking during this routine? What new questions could you ask next time?
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