NotesMath · P4 to P6Problem Sums
Problem Sums Rescue Notes
Read, plan, draw, solve, check.
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Bar model
Draw the parts, then the whole.
1
Step 1 — Read Twice
Read the question twice. Circle the numbers. Underline what is asked.
2
Step 2 — Plan
Ask: is this ratio, fraction, percentage, or model?
3
Step 3 — Draw the Model
One bar per group. Label units clearly.
4
Step 4 — Solve
Do the arithmetic. Write units after every number.
5
Step 5 — Check
Re-read the question. Did you answer what was asked?
Common Mistakes
- Skipping the model drawing
- Answering the wrong quantity
- Forgetting units in the final answer
Teaching Team Tip
If you're stuck for 2 minutes, redraw the model instead of staring at numbers.
Worked Example
Try it, then check the steps
Question
Ali had $80. He spent 1/4 on food and 3/8 on a book. How much money is left?
Steps
- 1Food = 1/4 × 80 = $20
- 2Book = 3/8 × 80 = $30
- 3Left = 80 − 20 − 30 = $30
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