CCSS.Math.Content.3.MD.A.2

Math3rd GradeSolve problems involving measurement and estimation of intervals of time, liquid volumes, and masses of objects.

The standard

Measure and estimate liquid volumes and masses of objects using standard units of grams (g), kilograms (kg), and liters (l). Add, subtract, multiply, or divide to solve one-step word problems involving masses or volumes that are given in the same units, e.g., by using drawings (such as a beaker with a measurement scale) to represent the problem.

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Measurement and Data

What this standard means

Students need to measure and estimate mass and liquid volume using grams, kilograms, and liters. They also need to solve one-step word problems with these units, using the same unit throughout. They should choose the right operation from the story, not just grab numbers.

Mastery looks like a student measuring with a scale or liter container, making a reasonable estimate, and explaining why they added, subtracted, multiplied, or divided. Common trouble spots are mixing up grams and kilograms, thinking all containers hold one liter, and missing whether a problem asks for equal groups or a comparison.

Ways to teach it

  • Hands-on activity: Set up a scale station with classroom objects, estimate grams or kilograms, then measure and record the actual mass.
  • Writing prompt: Explain how you know whether to add, subtract, multiply, or divide in a word problem about liters of juice.
  • Quick assessment: Show a beaker drawing and ask students to find how many liters are left after some is poured out.
  • Real-world connection: Use a grocery bag, rice bag, and water bottle labels to compare when grams, kilograms, and liters are used.

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Related standards

  • CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.4

    Measure volumes by counting unit cubes, using cubic cm, cubic in, cubic ft, and improvised units.

  • CCSS.Math.Content.4.MD.A.2

    Use the four operations to solve word problems involving distances, intervals of time, liquid volumes, masses of objects, and money, including problems involvin...

  • CCSS.Math.Content.3.MD.A

    Solve problems involving measurement and estimation of intervals of time, liquid volumes, and masses of objects.

  • CCSS.Math.Content.2.MD.A

    Measure and estimate lengths in standard units.

Standard text verified against corestandards.org on July 10, 2026.

Page updated July 10, 2026.

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