Math · Stage 4
Solve multi-step word problems on fractions and the four operations (bar model)
Draw the total as one bar, cut it into equal parts to find the fraction, then add, subtract, multiply or divide your way to the answer.
✦ Math📘 Stage 4 · S4⏱ ~12 min🧒 Ages 8–9★ Free to start
I can solve multi-step word problems on fractions and the four operations (bar model).
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Kavi's Bar-Model Trick 📊
A big word problem can feel tangled! "Don't panic," hoots Kavi. "I draw the whole amount as one bar, cut it into equal parts to find the fraction, then I add, take away, or share — one step at a time. The bar shows me exactly what's left 📊!"
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What your child will learn
1Draw the whole as a barA word problem gives you a whole amount — here 12 sweets. Draw it as one bar and cut it into equal parts. Cut into 4 equal parts and each part is 12 ÷ 4 = 3 sweets. Shade 1 part to show 1/4 of 12 = 3.
2The bar splits into 'used' and 'left'Most problems ask how much is left. The whole bar is the total; shade the part you use, and the rest is what's left. Here the whole is 12 and you use 3 — tap more ▶ and ◀ less to split the whole into the used part and the left part.
3Two moves solve any multi-step problemEvery multi-step fraction problem is these two moves, repeated. Tap each card.
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A peek inside
Kavi had $30. He spent 1/2 on a toy, then $4 on a drink. How much is left?
bar of 30 → 1/2 of 30 = 15 (toy); 30 − 15 − 4
Try this at home: Kavi had 18 marbles. She lost 1/3, then found 4 more. 1/3 of 18 = __ , so 18 − __ = __ , then + 4 = __
Ready to play and learn?
Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.
Part of Math · Stage 4 · S4 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.