How to Calculate the Volume of Prisms and Cubes

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational video provides a clear, step-by-step guide to calculating the volume of 3D shapes, specifically cubes, rectangular prisms, and triangular prisms. The narrator, Cayley, begins by defining volume conceptually as the amount of space inside a container, contrasting it with area. The video transitions from the basic method of counting individual unit cubes to deriving the efficient mathematical formula: Volume = Area of Base × Height ($V = B \times h$). The content explores the difference between square units (for area) and cubic units (for volume), providing a solid foundation for understanding dimensional measurement. Detailed visual animations demonstrate the "stacking" concept, where the base area is repeated upwards to create height. This visualization helps students grasp why the formula works, rather than just memorizing it. The video specifically addresses the more complex case of triangular prisms, teaching students how to correctly identify the triangular face as the "base" even when the prism is resting on a rectangular side. For educators, this resource is highly valuable for bridging the gap between 2D and 3D geometry. It effectively scaffolds learning by starting with simple counting, moving to rectangular prisms, and challenging students with triangular prisms. The visual emphasis on identifying the "Base" (capital B) versus a side length helps clarify a common point of confusion for middle school students. It is an excellent tool for introducing volume formulas or for remediation with students struggling to visualize spatial relationships.