BAR MODEL METHOD in PSLE Math

  Ho Soo Thong             Ho Shuyuan

Revised on 1 May 2020 

 BAR MODEL METHOD in PSLE MATH

In the write-up “Euclidean Algorithm – A Bar Modelling Approach”, we illustrate a Line modelling approach to solving two word problems. 

In Singapore, school teachers use rectangular bars instead of line segments for a better visual bar model to depict a problem. They use  a solving strategy, known as Ratio Approach, for a wide range of problems involving ratios, fractions and simple percentages. 

To follow up, we will solve some recently PSLE question  to illustrate the Ratio Approach.  

The modelling approach, providing a visual aid for understanding and solving the problem, is known as the Bar Model Method.

Bar Model Method involves Two Major Steps:  

1. Construct a holistic bar model for visible Algebraic Relations. 

2. Apply Simple Arithmetic Computations and Simple Algebra for unknowns. 

Ratio Approach to Recent PSLE Questions

First, we illustrate with solutions to four PSLE 2019 questions involving ratios, fractions and percentages.  Pupils can refer to the published Past Examination Papers for the original questions.

Example 1 – PSLE (13/01A/19)

The question involves three situations:

1. Algebraic Relation :     Number of stars in First Box = Number of stars inSecond Box .

2. First Box :                     Number of gold stars : Number of silver stars = 1 : 5 .

3. Second Box :                 Number of gold stars : Number of silver stars = 1 : 2 .