How can bar diagrams be used to model numerical expressions

Word problems often produce a great amount of anxiety for students.

Bar diagrams clearly align with the four-step problem-solving plan.

• Students create a visual representation to demonstrate a clear understanding of  the problem.

  • The bar diagram requires students to identify the problem’s setting and the  values associated with the situation.

  • The completed bar diagram leads to a definitive solution plan.

  • The bar diagram can be used as a visual clue to determine the reasonableness of  the solution.

Combined with the values provided in the problem, a solution plan is revealed. After  solving the problem, the bar diagram can be used to check the solution by substituting the value into the  drawing and using logical reasoning to assess reasonableness.