Read with an adult. Take your time. You can say, point, draw or write your answer.
1 Let's look together
A balance helps compare how heavy things are. The heavier side goes down. If the pans balance, their loads have equal mass.
A big object is not always heavier. An empty box can be lighter than a small stone. We check instead of guessing from size.
Balance tips down → heavierBalance rises → lighterLevel pans → equal mass
Look, point and talk with your adult.
2 Watch how I do it
A toy balances with five identical blocks. Another balances with three of those blocks. The first toy is heavier.
3 Your turn
A toy car balances with 4 blocks. A toy boat balances with 7 identical blocks. Which is heavier?
Have a go before opening the answer.
Let's check together
The boat. It needs more of the same blocks to balance it.
4 Try it away from the page
An adult helps you compare two safe objects on a balance. Draw the result; begin to notice gram readings on a suitable scale.
Open your writing and drawing pad
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Adult notes · prerequisites, safety and coverage
Prerequisite: comparison. Use safe lightweight objects and identical non-standard weights. Do not infer mass just from an illustration.
Use large counters, blocks and paper before symbols. Revisit a lesson until the child can show and explain the idea. Numbers grow from 0–10 to 20, then 100; these pages are not a one-sitting course.
Compare lengths, heights, mass, capacity and time.
Measure and record these quantities through practical work.