Mrs Mactivity

Year 3 Spring Block 4

Year 3 Maths – Spring Block 4: Mass and Capacity

This block develops pupils’ understanding of mass and capacity, focusing on reading scales, measuring accurately and working with metric units. Pupils use grams, kilograms, millilitres and litres in a range of practical contexts.

Pupils begin by reading scales and measuring mass in grams and kilograms, before exploring equivalent masses and comparing values. They then apply their understanding to add and subtract mass.

Later in the block, pupils move on to capacity and volume, measuring in millilitres and litres, comparing values and solving problems involving addition and subtraction.

Explore the full Year 3 maths scheme of work to see how this block fits within the wider progression.

Download our free Year 3 maths yearly overview

White Rose Small Steps

Week 10

  • Use scales
  • Measure mass in grams
  • Measure mass in kilograms and grams
  • Equivalent masses (kilograms and grams)

Week 11

  • Compare mass
  • Add and subtract mass
  • Measure capacity and volume in millilitres
  • Measure capacity and volume in litres and millilitres

Week 12

  • Equivalent capacities and volumes (litres and millilitres)
  • Compare capacity and volume
  • Add and subtract capacity and volume
National Curriculum Objectives
  • Measure, compare, add and subtract mass (kg/g) and volume/capacity (l/ml)

Year 3 Mass and Capacity Worksheets and Lesson Packs

Explore our Year 3 mass and capacity worksheets, lesson packs, teaching slides and planning for Spring Block 4. These resources support pupils in developing confidence with measuring, comparing and calculating using metric units.

Pupils practise reading scales, measuring in grams and kilograms, and working with equivalent masses. They then apply these skills to compare values and solve problems involving addition and subtraction.

The block also introduces capacity and volume, with pupils measuring in millilitres and litres, comparing amounts and solving problems using real-life contexts.

Year 3 Mass and Capacity FAQs

What is taught in Year 3 mass and capacity?

Pupils learn to measure, compare and calculate mass using grams and kilograms, and capacity using millilitres and litres. They also read scales and work with equivalent units.

Do pupils convert between grams and kilograms?

Yes. Pupils learn that 1 kilogram is equal to 1,000 grams and use this to find equivalent masses and compare values.

What is the difference between capacity and volume?

Capacity is the maximum amount a container can hold, while volume refers to how much liquid is inside it. Pupils explore both concepts using practical examples.

Do pupils learn to read scales in Year 3?

Yes. Reading scales is a key part of this block, helping pupils measure accurately and understand intervals on different measuring instruments.

Are these resources aligned with White Rose Maths?

Yes. These resources follow the White Rose small steps for Year 3 Spring Block 4, supporting clear progression across the unit.

Where can I find the full Year 3 maths scheme?

Browse the full Year 3 maths scheme to explore all blocks and lesson sequences across the year.