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A simulation of the Bar Model method

In this task, you will be presented with an example bar model task. You are asked to try to model, draw or simulate the example yourself.
Bar graph on a computer screen
© Photodisc
In this task, you will be presented with an example Bar Model task. You are asked to try to model, draw or simulate the example yourself.

First consider this example Bar Model task. It comes from p.63 of the Year 6 Max Maths book.

This is the first half of a bar model example: Han has 247 stamps in his collection. Toby has 6 times as many stamps as Han. How many stamps does Toby have? How many stamps do they have altogether. The image shows one bar depicting Han with the number 247 next to it, and another bar underneath that is six times times the length. It is then stated that you need to multiple 6 by 247 yielding 1482

In the second part then the two bars for Han, 247, and for Toby, 1482 are placed next to each other. The total number depicted then is 247+1482 yielding 1729. Han and Toby have 1729 stamps together

Model the task with a representation you would like to try yourself. For example, you might have some concrete materials such as Lego, or you might like to draw something. Or you could experiment with this online tool in geogebra.

NOTE: you can open the tool in a new window by right-clicking on the link and selecting ‘open in new window’.

Finally, maybe you can find your own Bar Model task. Model it as well!

Reference:

‘Max Maths Primary – A Singapore Approach’ Student’s Book 6 p.63 © Macmillan Publishers Limited and Star Publishing Pte Ltd 2018

‘Max Maths Primary – A Singapore Approach’ is specifically designed for International and English-medium schools that are following the Cambridge Primary maths curriculum framework. http://maxmaths.education/SingaporeApproach/

For further information or to request sample copies, please visit the website http://www.macmillanic.com.

© University of Southampton
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World Class Maths: Asian Teaching Methods

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