The questions are on the mass and volume test. Take it under real conditions before reading the mark scheme.
Quick answer: Mass is the amount of matter in an object, measured in kilograms or grams with a balance. This mark scheme gives the model answers and the marks for the 8 questions of the grade 6 science test on mass and volume, from convert units to floating cork, with the equivalent answers to accept.
Award marks as shown. Accept correct answers in equivalent units. For explanations, award marks for each valid scientific idea rather than for exact wording.
Level: Grade 6 science (Year 7 · Class 6) · Curriculum: SEP measurement
Question 1 Convert units (2 marks)
- 3.2 × 1000 = 3200 g.
- 750 ÷ 1000 = 0.75 L.
Marking: 1 mark for each correct value with its unit.
Question 2 Read the cylinder (3 marks)
- 1 mL.
- 18 mL.
- The bottom of the curved surface.
Marking: 1 mark each.
Question 3 Eye level (2 marks)
Looking from above or below makes the surface seem to sit at a different mark on the scale. Eye level gives the true reading.Marking: 1 mark for the idea of a shifted apparent reading, 1 mark for eye level giving the true value.
Question 4 Volume of a key (3 marks)
- 42 − 35 = 7 cm³.
- 7 mL ÷ 1000 = 0.007 L.
- The key has an irregular shape, so length × width × height cannot be used.
Marking: 1 mark each.
Question 5 Water in a beaker (2 marks)
- 187.5 − 62.5 = 125.0 g.
- 125.0 g, the mass of the water only.
Marking: 1 mark each.
Question 6 Kitchen amounts (3 marks)
- 2000 − 650 = 1350 g = 1.35 kg.
- 5000 ÷ 600 = 8.33, so 8 cups.
- 8 × 600 = 4800; 5000 − 4800 = 200 mL.
Marking: 1 mark each.
Question 7 Choosing a cylinder (2 marks)
The 10 mL cylinder: finer divisions give a more precise reading, and a small error is a smaller fraction of 6 mL.Marking: 1 mark for the correct choice, 1 mark for a reason based on divisions or precision.
Question 8 Floating cork (3 marks)
- The sinker holds the cork under the surface so that it displaces its whole volume.
- Cork = (50 − 30) − (38 − 30) = 20 − 8 = 12 cm³.
Marking: (a) 1 mark. (b) 1 mark for the method, 1 mark for the answer with unit.
