Demystifying Maths

🍸🍺🍷🥂 Nope, not that kind of bar!

This kind of bar model is another visual representation that is great for problem solving.

Bar models are usually introduced in key stage one for part-whole problems, but they are useful for many types of problems all the way through to GCSE (and beyond!), such as:

⭐️ The four operations and understanding their inverses (+/-, x/➗)
⭐️ Fractions, decimals, and percentage questions
⭐️ Ratios
⭐️ Algebra

For me, they’re my favourite go to for ratio questions. Having such a versatile visual for a topic that so many people find tricky is invaluable.

Take a look at the diagram for the comparison bar model. Can you think of any other questions that require a similar diagram? Add them in the comments below.

A picture speaks a thousand words and having the right diagram really can make all the difference in understanding and solving a problem.

Having trouble with the symbols < > ?

< is less than
> is greater than

⭐️ They’re always read from left to right
⭐️ The larger quantity is nearest to the open end of the symbol

So if you encounter the open end first when you’re reading, it’s a greater than symbol as you’ll already have said the larger amount.

Did you learn about the greedy crocodile? 🐊

This is a snappy (😂🙈) alternative way to help kids remember which symbol to use. The greedy crocodile is always going to eat the larger quantity. This method is still taught in schools, just be sure to make your crocodiles toothless! 🐊❌🦷