The model method: Singapore children's tool for representing and solving algebraic word problems

Solving arithmetic and algebraic word problems is a key component of the Singapore elementary mathematics curriculum. One heuristic taught, the model method, involves drawing a diagram to represent key information in the problem. We describe the model method and a three-phase theoretical framework supporting its use. We conducted 2 studies to examine teachers' perceptions and children's application of the model method. The subjects were 14 primary teachers from 4 schools and 151 Primary 5 children. The model method affords higher ability children without access to letter-symbolic algebra a means to represent and solve algebraic word problems. Partly correct solutions suggest that representation is not an all-or-nothing process in which model drawing is either completely correct or completely incorrect. Instead, an incorrect solution could be the consequence of misrepresentation of a single piece of information. Our findings offer avenues of support in word problem solving to children of average ability. Copyright © 2009 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.