Grade 6 · Math · Lesson 22

Volume of Rectangular Prisms

Volume is the amount of 3D space INSIDE a solid shape. While area covers a flat surface and perimeter measures the outline, volume measures how much fits inside a box, a tank, or any container. Volume is always measured in CUBIC units — three dimensions multiplied together. US customary cubic units are cu in (cubic inches), cu ft (cubic feet), and cu yd (cubic yards). Metric cubic units are cm^3 (cubic centimeters) and m^3 (cubic meters). The formula V = l x w x h is the same in either system; only the unit labels change.

What this lesson teaches

1Compute the volume of a rectangular prism using V = l x w x h in cubic inches, cubic feet, cubic cm, or cubic meters
2Compute the volume of a cube using V = s x s x s in either US customary or metric units
3Express volume in cubic units (cu in, cu ft, cm^3, m^3) and distinguish it from area and perimeter
4Solve real-world volume word problems with US customary and metric measurements

Free · 7 days · No credit card

Unlock the full HSEA system for 7 days.

Create a kid profile, open any lesson, save progress — your family uses HSEA exactly the way a paying family does. Cancel anytime. Nothing to set up, no card required.

✓ All 1,680 lessons, Grades 1–6, every subject
✓ Profiles + saved progress for every kid
✓ Final exams + printable certificates

Start your 7-day free trial →

Already convinced? See full membership plans →