Max Maths, Year 5, Try it, Word problems (1)

In the 'Max Maths' curriculum for Year 5, students are presented with practical applications of their mathematical skills through word problems. One of the exercises, titled 'Try it, Word problems (1)', encourages pupils to solve real-life scenarios using their knowledge of time and duration. In the first problem, Han's study session on a Sunday is the focus. Students are tasked with calculating the total time Han spent studying, which began at 15:30 and ended at 17:43. To assist in finding the solution, learners are instructed to draw a timeline, which features key hourly increments between 15:00 and 18:00, to visually represent the study period.

The timeline serves as a tool to break down the duration into manageable parts that can be added together to determine the total study time. By calculating the time from the start to the end of the study session, students can work out that Han spent a specific amount of time studying. This type of problem not only tests the pupils' ability to work with time but also helps them develop strategies for solving problems by visualising and breaking down the information provided.