Lesson 5
Multi-step Conversion Problems: Metric Length
Lesson Purpose
The purpose of this lesson is for students to solve multi-step conversion problems about distance in metric units.
Lesson Narrative
In this lesson, students convert different metric distance measurements and perform arithmetic with those measurements in order to solve problems (MP2). The values of the measurements are mostly decimals so students practice performing arithmetic with decimals. They have opportunities to use all four operations and to select whether to convert from the larger unit to a smaller unit or from the smaller unit to a larger unit. Using a smaller unit requires dealing with larger numbers while using a larger unit requires dealing with decimals. Students are invited to compare the two strategies while using a strategy that makes sense to them.
- Engagement
- MLR1
Learning Goals
Teacher Facing
- Solve multi-step problems involving metric length measurement conversions.
Student Facing
- Let’s solve multi-step problems about metric length.
Required Materials
Materials to Gather
Required Preparation
Lesson Timeline
| Warm-up | 10 min |
| Activity 1 | 15 min |
| Activity 2 | 20 min |
| Lesson Synthesis | 10 min |
| Cool-down | 5 min |
Teacher Reflection Questions
What evidence did you see that each of your students applied understanding of decimals from a previous unit?
Suggested Centers
- Would You Rather? (2–5), Stage 2: Compare to Smaller Units (Supporting)
- Compare (1–5), Stage 5: Fractions (Supporting)