Lesson 6: Convert Measurement Units6.AT.3c

I can…

I can convert measurement units using ratios and conversion factors.

Key words

• Conversion Factor — A ratio that helps you change one unit into another.
• Unit — A standard amount used to measure, like an inch or a liter.
• Equivalent — Having the same value, just in different units.
• Ratio — A way to compare two amounts, like 3 to 2.
• Customary units — The U.S. way of measuring, like inches, feet, and pounds.
• Metric units — A way of measuring by 10s, like meters, liters, and grams.

Steps

1. The cabinet is 5 feet tall. I want to know how many inches that is.
2. My conversion factor is 1 foot = 12 inches.
3. Inches are smaller than feet, so I multiply: 5 × 12 = 60.
4. So 5 feet = 60 inches.

Try it

Which is the correct conversion of 5 yards to inches?

Check your answer

180 inches

5 yards × 3 = 15 feet. 15 feet × 12 = 180 inches. Or: 5 × 36 = 180 inches.

Sentence starter

I know ___ because ___.

Goal: I can explain my conversion using the words conversion factor, unit, equivalent, and ratio.