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Bar Models for Ratios

REPRESENTATIONAL
Mathematics›Ratio & Proportion|Ages 9—12|ID: mt_ePXg_XyCKU

Represent ratio and proportion problems using bar models (rectangular strips divided into equal parts labelled with quantities) and tape diagrams (segmented strips showing part-to-part and part-to-whole relationships); use these visual models to set up and solve unequal sharing, scaling, and percentage problems — drawing the diagram first, then reading off the answer

Mastery Evidence

  • Draw a bar model to represent a ratio problem — e.g. sharing £20 in the ratio 3:2 by drawing 5 equal blocks
  • Use a bar model to solve a proportion problem and explain each step
  • Compare bar models with other representations (tables, double number lines) and explain when each is most useful

Assessment Prompt

“If [child] needs to share 30 stickers between two friends in a 2:3 ratio, can they draw a bar model — splitting a strip into 5 equal boxes — and use it to work out each share without just guessing?”

Prerequisites0

No prerequisites — this is a foundational topic.

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