At the Pumps

This problem challenges pupils to use their mathematical knowledge and skills in a near-real situation, with no leads as to what operations and previous knowledge are needed to find a solution.

You could use this activity as a starter for investigating how, and where, we find out further information on a topic. It is also useful as a stimulus for encouraging pupils to think about different measures - you could start a lesson inviting learners to suggest different ways of measuring capacity, which would then lead into a discussion about the need for conversions.

After reading the problem it would be good to spend some valuable time talking about what further information might be needed and what kind of calculations may be necessary. Ask children to gather ideas in pairs then sharing with the whole group before working towards a solution. It would be worthwhile to invite children to estimate what they think the answer will be as this could serve as a checking mechanism later in the problem-solving process.

Tell me what you know about gallons.

What information do you think we may need?

How can you find that (the information) out?

What would you estimate the answer to be?

Encourage the pupils to create similar problems and look at other related measures in a similar way.

Calculators will be useful to help with more complicated calculations. Having the internet and/or books available to discover the conversion would be a good idea.