Mathematics - Term 3 - Week 6

Problem solving is a critical skill in mathematics that involves identifying a problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and reviewing the solution. This week, we will focus on breaking down problems into manageable steps. We will also discuss how visual models, such as number lines and bar models, can help us visualize the problem and find solutions more effectively.

Let's say we have 3 apples and we buy 5 more. To find the total number of apples, we can set up the equation: 3 + 5 = ? Using a number line, we start at 3 and move 5 spaces to the right, landing on 8. Therefore, the total number of apples is 8. This example shows how we can use both equations and visual models to solve problems.

Now, let's work through a problem together. If a book costs R45 and you have R100, how much money will you have left after buying the book? First, we subtract the cost of the book from the amount of money we have: 100 - 45 = ?. Using a visual model, we can represent R100 as a full bar and remove a section representing R45. This helps us see that we will have R55 left after the purchase.

Now it's your turn! Solve the following problems independently. Remember to show your working clearly and use visual models if it helps you. 1) If you have 12 candies and you give away 4, how many do you have left? 2) A box contains 20 chocolates. If you eat 7, how many are left? 3) You read 15 pages of a book and there are 25 pages left. How many pages is the book in total? Show your calculations and any models you used.

• Review the solution
• Identify the problem
• Carry out the plan
• Write the answer

Answer: Identify the problem

The first step in problem solving is to identify what the problem is before attempting to solve it.

• 7
• 8
• 6
• 10

Answer: 7

You subtract the lost marbles from the total: 10 - 3 = 7.

Answer: A number line helps visualize the addition by showing the starting point and how far to move to find the total.

Using a number line allows students to see the increments and understand the concept of addition more clearly.

• 15
• 16
• 14
• 13

Answer: 15

Adding 6 and 9 gives you 15.

Answer: 30 rand

You subtract the amount spent from the total: 50 - 20 = 30.

• Bar model
• Pie chart
• Line graph
• Histogram

Answer: Bar model

A bar model visually represents quantities and can show how one quantity is taken away from another.

Answer: Review your work and correct the mistake.

It's important to check your work and understand where you went wrong to learn from your mistakes.

• Ask a friend