How does the bar model method solve PSLE Maths word problems?

The bar model turns a word problem into rectangles whose lengths represent quantities, so relationships you'd otherwise juggle in algebra become something a child can see and compare. It is the backbone of Singapore Maths and the single most useful PSLE problem-solving tool.

Step by step

1. Read the problem and identify the quantitiesDecide what each unknown is and which quantities are being compared or combined.
2. Draw bars to scaleRepresent each quantity as a bar; equal parts get equal lengths, and a larger quantity gets a longer bar.
3. Mark what you know and what you wantLabel the totals, differences, or units given, and put a question mark on the part you need to find.
4. Work out one unit, then scale upFind the value of one unit (one part) from the numbers given, then multiply to reach the answer.

See it worked live

A static diagram only goes so far — children learn the model method fastest when someone draws it with them and adjusts the bars as they reason. LearnBuddy's AI tutor does exactly that on a live whiteboard, and you can drill the same problem types with free past-year papers.

Keep going

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