If you read the examples given in the texts about solving complex word problems using bar models, you will understand how the seemingly difficult question mentioned by homemom can be easily visualized with a simple bar model & solved mathematically. The pictorial presentation of bar models effectively helps students transition into more abstract thinking.

I homeschooled my older child with Singapore math starting with grade 5, and my younger child's school (she's now in grade 5) just switched to Math in Focus this year. I'm pretty comfortable with math and was strong in Algebra, and it took me a bit of time to catch on to the bar modeling method as I started in grade 5, when the problems are a bit more challenging. Nevertheless, once I caught on, I loved the bar method. It is a great way to show the spacial relationships among the components of a problem. I think it builds understanding of the logic underlying the formulas used. My kids adapted to it well and understood their math well. My older daughter is thriving in math and is beyond my ability to teach her. We use AOPS online courses for her. The Peter and Francine model shown below can be solved 3 ways: trial and error....make a table and try some numbers out and you can close in on the correct number; Algebra: P-F=110, 6F-F=110, F=22, H+F=120, H=98; or using bar modeling, if you know how to use it. I can't speak to whether or not the teacher's edition does an adequate job of explaining the process, as I never purchased the teacher's edition. I just figured it out from the textbook, but then, I do like math and understand at this level. I highly recommend this series if the person teaching has a good understanding of mathematics.

This is an awful product with word problems that are 100% confusing, and could not be solved! There just doesn't seem to be enough information...but what's worse is that it doesn't explain to the student HOW to figure out the problem in neither the workbook nor the textbook! It says, "Solve. Use any strategy." ?? Ex: Hannah & Francine have $120. Hannah & Peter have $230. Peter has 6 times as much money as Francine. How much money does Hannah have? Sorry we spent money on this...will need to scrap it, I think, and chalk it up to experience...will return to the tried and true...

This book I am so disappointed in. The examples they give to do the problems make no sense what so ever. The teacher was even having trouble figuring out what there points were even with the teachers guide. She wanted me to get another math book but knew that I had already spent so much money on this book that she decided she would just teach what she could out of it.