Units of Liquid Volume: Liter and Milliliter
Units of Liquid Volume: Liter and Milliliter introduces Grade 3 students to the two standard metric units for measuring liquid. From Eureka Math Grade 3: one liter (L) equals 1,000 milliliters (mL). The milliliter is a small unit — about 20 drops of water — while the liter is a larger everyday unit such as a bottle of water. Students practice measuring, estimating, and comparing liquid volumes using both units. Understanding the 1,000:1 relationship prepares students for metric unit conversion and proportional reasoning in later grades.
Key Concepts
The liter (L) is a standard metric unit for measuring liquid volume. The milliliter (mL) is a smaller unit of liquid volume, where "milli" means one thousandth. There are 1,000 milliliters in 1 liter.
$$1 \text{ L} = 1000 \text{ mL}$$.
Common Questions
What is a liter?
A liter (L) is a standard metric unit for measuring liquid volume. A typical water bottle holds about 1 liter.
What is a milliliter?
A milliliter (mL) is 1/1000 of a liter. About 20 drops of water make 1 milliliter.
How many milliliters are in a liter?
1 liter = 1,000 milliliters.
When do you use liters vs milliliters?
Use liters for larger volumes (beverages, tanks). Use milliliters for small amounts (medicine, teaspoons).
How do you convert liters to milliliters?
Multiply by 1,000: 3 L = 3,000 mL.
What Eureka Math grade introduces liters and milliliters?
Grade 3, within the measurement and data domain.