- Definition
Mass is simply how much "stuff" is in an object. We usually measure it in grams or kilograms.
A small, solid rock has more mass than a large, empty box.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Mass is like the amount of stuffing packed inside a teddy bear.
Ask your child: Which has more mass, this big balloon or this small apple?
Common mix-up: Kids often confuse mass with size, thinking bigger means heavier. Mass is about how much 'stuff' is in an object, not just how big it looks.
Examples
- A full water bottle has more mass than an empty one.
- A metal spoon has more mass than a plastic spoon of the same size.
mass is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
- Kindergarten Kindergarten
- Grade 1 Mathematics
- Grade 3 Mathematics
- Grade 4 Mathematics
- Grade 5 Mathematics
- Grade 6 Mathematics
+4 more mentions across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
