Center Focus

Determining Density

  1. You will need five rectangular solids of different densities (i.e. block of wood, eraser, plastic box), calculators, rulers, and a balance.
  2. Students should already be familiar with finding volume and density. This activity is best used as a follow-up to a whole class activity on density.
  3. Have the students measure the dimensions of the rectangular solids in order to measure the volume.
  4. They will then need to determine the mass of each solid by weighing it on the balance.
  5. Using this information, they can then calculate the density by dividing the mass by the volume. Have students use this data sheet to record their findings.
  6. Have students make conclusions based on their results.