Solving Division Word Problems with Bar Models

MatholiaChannel

This educational video demonstrates how to solve division word problems involving length and height using the bar modeling method. It presents two distinct examples: first, dividing a 12 cm strip of paper into equal pieces, and second, determining the height of a single shipping container from a 9 m stack of three. The video guides viewers through the process of translating text-based problems into visual bar models to identify the correct mathematical operation. Key themes include mathematical visualization, the relationship between "wholes" and "parts," and basic division facts. The video explicitly connects real-world objects (paper, shipping containers) to abstract representations (rectangular bars), helping students bridge the gap between concrete understanding and abstract mathematical reasoning. It reinforces the concept of equal groups which is foundational for understanding division. For educators, this video serves as an excellent introduction or reinforcement of Singapore Math strategies for word problems. It is particularly useful for visual learners who struggle to choose the correct operation from text alone. The step-by-step narration allows teachers to pause and predict the next step, making it an interactive tool for whole-class instruction or a helpful resource for independent review stations.