packet

Everyday

1. A packet is a small bag or box that holds things, like seeds or crisps. tree →
2. A packet can also mean a small parcel sent by post. tree →
3. «Cost a packet» (UK, informal) means cost a lot of money. tree →

In the lessons

In maths: a group container: so many items in each packet; packets bought; packets needed (divide and round up). In everyday life: a packet of crisps, biscuits, seeds or tissues. In science: seed packets tell how deep and far apart to plant. In stories: a mysterious packet arrives.

Examples

• A packet has 12 stickers. tree →
• She bought 3 packets of seeds. tree →
• Each packet costs 2 pounds. tree →
• How many packets does he need for 50 sweets? tree →
• Read the back of the seed packet before planting. tree →
• He opened a packet of crisps. tree →
• The cheese comes in a packet of 10 slices. tree →
• That new bike must have cost a packet! tree →
• An Ass and a Dog were on their travels together, and, as they went along, they found a sealed packet lying on the ground. tree →

Note

«In each packet» is a rate: total = per packet × packets. Finding packets needed means divide, then round up. Trap: count items, not packets. «Packet» is common in British English; Americans often say «pack» or «package» (a pack of gum, a bag of chips).