FlashcardsMath · P5 / P6Problem Sums / Model Drawing / Heuristics
PSLE Math Problem Sums Detective Flashcards
Crack the clues. Draw the model. Solve with confidence.
See it
Bar model
Draw the parts, then the whole.
1
Step 1 — Read the Clue
Underline what is given and circle what is asked. Every problem sum hides its answer in the clues.
2
Step 2 — Choose the Model
Pick the right heuristic: bar model, part-whole, before-after, or units & parts.
- Comparison problems → 2-bar model
- Sharing problems → part-whole
- Ratio change → before-and-after
3
Step 3 — Solve Carefully
Label units, write statements, show every working line. Neat working wins method marks.
4
Step 4 — Detective Check
Re-read the question. Does the answer match the units asked? Would it make sense in real life?
Common Mistakes
- Jumping to numbers before drawing the model
- Answering the wrong quantity
- Forgetting to check units at the end
Teaching Team Tip
Every flashcard is a mini-case. Say it out loud: 'The clue is…, the model is…, the answer must be…'.
Worked Example
Try it, then check the steps
Question
Detective Case: Ali and Ben share $84 in the ratio 3 : 4. How much does Ben have?
Steps
- 1Total units = 3 + 4 = 7 units
- 27 units = $84 → 1 unit = $12
- 3Ben = 4 units = 4 × 12 = $48
What to do next
Learn Problem Sums
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