CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.3a
The Standard
A cube with side length 1 unit, called a "unit cube," is said to have "one cubic unit" of volume, and can be used to measure volume.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students use unit cubes to measure how much space a solid occupies. They count the cubes and report the volume in cubic units.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students explain that a cube with edges one unit long has a volume of one cubic unit. They pack solids without gaps or overlaps and label volume in cubic units.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may use square units instead of cubic units. They may count only visible cubes or leave gaps when measuring. Some think a unit cube can have any edge length.
How to Assess It
- Give students 12 unit cubes. Ask them to build a solid, state its volume with correct units, and explain why each cube counts as one.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Build two different rectangular prisms with 24 one-inch cubes, then count and label each volume in cubic inches.
Write: Why does a cube with one-centimeter edges measure one cubic centimeter, not one square centimeter?
Play Volume Match by pairing models or pictures of packed cubes with cards showing the correct cubic-unit measurement.
Pack a small box with centimeter cubes, then explain what the cube count tells about its storage space.
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Printable 5.MD.C.3a Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.3a, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
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