The part-whole model is a visual representation used primarily in mathematics to show the relationship between a whole number and its component parts. It helps students understand how a whole can be split into parts and how those parts combine to make the whole
Key Features of the Part-Whole Model
- Visual Structure: Typically, the model is depicted as a diagram with a "whole" connected to two or more "parts." These parts add up to the whole
- Partitioning: The process of breaking a whole number into parts is called partitioning. For example, the number 6 can be partitioned into parts like 4 and 2, or 3, 2, and 1, etc.
- Mathematical Use: It is useful for teaching addition and subtraction by showing how parts combine or separate to form a whole. If the whole and one part are known, the missing part can be found by subtraction
- Number Sense Development: The model helps develop a deeper understanding of numbers (number sense) by encouraging learners to manipulate numbers flexibly rather than relying solely on algorithms
- Applications: Beyond simple addition and subtraction, part-whole models can also be adapted for fractions, multiplication, and division using bar models
Examples of Using the Part-Whole Model
- Partitioning a number into tens and ones: For the number 89, the whole is 89, partitioned into 80 (tens) and 9 (ones)
- Finding a missing part: If the whole is 45 and one part is 15, the missing part is 30 (45 - 15)
- Adding parts to find the whole: If parts are 3 and 5, the whole is 8 (3 + 5)
Summary
The part-whole model is a foundational tool in early mathematics education that visually demonstrates how numbers can be broken down and recombined. It supports understanding of addition, subtraction, and number relationships, fostering flexible thinking about numbers and helping children build a strong numerical foundation
