Representations and models - May 2012, Stage 1&2

It can be useful to use different ways of looking at mathematical ideas. This month we look at how alternative representations and models help us to develop understanding of the underlying mathematical concepts.

Problems

Matching Numbers

Stage: 1 Challenge Level:

Can you find different ways of showing the same number? Try this matching game and see!

How Do You See It?

Stage: 1 and 2 Challenge Level:

Here are some short problems for you to try. Talk to your friends about how you work them out.

How We'd Count

Stage: 1 and 2 Challenge Level:

An activity centred around observations of dots and how we visualise number arrangement patterns.

That Number Square!

Stage: 1 and 2 Challenge Level:

Exploring the structure of a number square: how quickly can you put the number tiles in the right place on the grid?

Different Sizes

Stage: 1 and 2 Challenge Level:

A simple visual exploration into halving and doubling.

Let's Divide Up!

Stage: 2 Challenge Level:

Look at different ways of dividing things. What do they mean? How might you show them in a picture, with things, with numbers and symbols?

Matching Fractions

Stage: 2 Challenge Level:

Can you find different ways of showing the same fraction? Try this matching game and see.

Featured Solution

Odd Times Even

Not that many solutions but some good justifications offered here.

Go to last month's problems to see more solutions.

Articles & Games

From Objects and Images to Mathematical Ideas

This article looks at how images, concrete apparatus and representations can help students develop deeper understandings of abstract mathematical ideas.

Models in Mind

This article looks at how models support mathematical thinking about numbers and the number system