Visualizing Mathematics: The Use of Block Models for Strategic Problem Solving

The ability to visually manipulate problem quantities is often the key understand effectively concept towards proper solution process. Modeling blocks in a text visual mathematical technique that utilizes bar models express relationship between known and unknown numerical elements. Facing dismal performance among students entering high school with poor basic problem-solving skills, this study an attempt investigate how block model approach potentially reinforce students’ heuristic skills (analytical & procedural) solving problems. Two classes of grade 7 Ibarra National High School, Maasin City, Philippines were used as participants which assigned into groups, is, control experimental groups. Control group was taught using conventional method while model. Using quasi-experimental design, data analysis revealed significant increase scores mean difference groups who did not use method. In conclusion, utilization gives potential developing strategic learners. Hence, should be incorporated by mathematics teachers their teaching strategies.