LC5
Leaning Target(s)
1. I can calculate the volume of the sclinder using the formula
Activity Title: Filling the Flower Pot: Calculating Cylinder Volume
Description of the Activity:
In this activity, students will apply their knowledge of calculating the volume of cylinders to design a
birthday cake. They will work in pairs to determine the appropriate dimensions and volume of the cake
layers to ensure they meet specific criteria. This hands-on activity encourages collaboration, critical
thinking, and practical application of mathematical concepts.
Instructions to Students:
1. Think (5 minutes):
-Individually think about the steps needed to calculate the volume of a cylinder. Recall the formula for
the volume of a cylinder: ( V = \pi r^2 h ).
-Consider how this formula applies to designing a cylindrical birthday cake, including deciding on the
radius and height of the cake.
2. Pair (10 minutes):
-Pair up with a classmate and share your thoughts on how to design the birthday cake.
-Discuss and agree on the dimensions (radius and height) of the cake layers. Use the formula to calculate
the volume of each layer.
-Ensure that the total volume of the cake meets the criteria provided by the teacher (e.g., the cake must
be able to serve a certain number of people).
3. Share (10 minutes):
-Present your cake design to the class, explaining the dimensions chosen and the calculations performed
to determine the volume.
-Be prepared to answer questions from your classmates and the teacher about your design and
calculations.
Process Questions:
1. What is the formula for the volume of a cylinder?
2. How do you determine the radius and height of your cake to meet the given criteria?
3. How does changing the radius or height of the cake affect its volume?
4. Why is it important to accurately calculate the volume of the cake layers?
5. How did you ensure that the total volume of your cake meets the requirements?
1. Handout on Cylinder Volume Calculation:
-The formula for the volume of a cylinder: ( V = \pi r^2 h )
-Example problems with step-by-step solutions
-Blank space for students to perform their calculations
2. Cake Design Worksheet:
-Section to record the chosen dimensions (radius and height) of the cake layers
-Space for volume calculations for each layerArea to sketch the design of the birthday cake
3. Calculator:
-For accurate calculations
4. Graph Paper:
-To help with sketching the cake design accurately
5. Rulers and Compasses:
-For drawing the dimensions of the cake
6. Markers/Colored Pencils:
-For making the cake design visually appealing
Example Problem:
Maria is making a birthday cake for her friend. She wants to decorate the cake with a cylinder-shaped
tower made of frosting. The tower has a circular base with a radius of 5 cm and a height of 10cm.
Cake Design Worksheet:
Layer 1:
Radius= _____cm
Height= _____cm
Volume= _____cm (^3)
Layer 2:
Radius= _____cm
Height= _____cm
Volume= _____cm(^3)
Total Volume: ______cm(^3)
Sketch your birthday cake below:
