Here are some basic examples of how we can use strip diagrams to solve word problems. Strip diagrams can be used to solve a variety of problems involving each of the operations – from basic addition and subtraction to more complex multiplication and division, even including multi-step word problems. With multiplication and division, the total is also represented by the top rectangle, and the bottom rectangle represents the groups.
The total will be the top rectangle, whether this quantity is known or unknown, and the parts will make up the rectangles at the bottom. For addition and subtraction, the strip diagram will be used as a part-part-whole model. Looking at the examples below, you can see that the way we use strip diagrams for addition and subtraction, as well as for multiplication and division, are the same but with different unknown quantities. No matter the operation, the top rectangle will represent the total of the parts of the bottom rectangle. Either the top rectangle, or one or more parts of the bottom rectangle, will be blank to represent the unknown quantity that needs to be found. Depending on the equation and the operation needed, the bottom rectangle will be split into two or more parts. To use a strip diagram, you will start by drawing two rectangles of the same size. This is a skill many students struggle with and this is a quick strategy that can be used with all four operations. They are especially helpful when students are solving word problems, as it can also help them determine which operation they need to use. These visual models are quick and easy to draw and allow students to create a representation of the relationship between the quantities involved in the problem. Why is a strip diagram important?Ī strip diagram allows students to visualize the problem or equation they are trying to solve in a simple and efficient way. This helps students build an understanding of the relationships between the numbers while performing each operation.įor example, if we are using a strip diagram to represent the subtraction problem 28 – 12 = ?, we would have a “total” strip at the top of the diagram, and then two smaller strips underneath that, together, equal the same length as the total strip. One or more quantities are unknown and the model will help provide students with a visual representation of the quantities in relation to the other unknown quantities as well as the known quantities in the problem.
Students set up the rectangular model as two “strips,” one representing the total and one representing the parts. What is a strip diagram?Ī strip diagram is a visual model used as support to solve an addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division equation or word problem. Strip diagrams are used during the “representational” stage of the CRA model, as students represent the equation or math problem they are solving. These rectangular models can be used with all four operations and may be seen in all elementary grade levels.
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