Converting Customary Units of Weight

When we convert units of measurement we can use a customary unit study guide. When you're renaming a smaller unit to a larger unit you divide. When you're renaming a larger unit to smaller unit you multiply.

If I ask you to convert 4 pounds into ounces what would the answer be? Before you begin solving your problem ask yourself this- Am a going large to smaller unit or to a small to larger unit to determine if you're going to multiply or divide.

4 pounds = ____ ounces

Because pounds into ounces is larger to smaller unit, I am going to multiply. Therefore, 4 x 16 = 64

4 pounds = 64 ounces

Now let's try pounds to tons. REMEMBER ask yourself " Am a going large to smaller unit or small to larger unit to determine if you're going to multiply or divide.

Now let's try pounds to tons. REMEMBER ask yourself " Am I going large to smaller unit or small to larger unit to determine if you're going to multiply or divide.

6,000 pounds = _____ tons

Because pounds are smaller than tons I'm going to have to follow the small to large rule and divide 6,000 pounds by 2,000 because there are 2,000 pounds in each ton.

6,000 pounds = 3 tons

because 6,000/2,000 = 3