Do you often find your child struggling with math concepts, especially when it comes to applying them in real-life situations? If so, you’re not alone. Many parents of primary students share the same concern, particularly when it comes to mastering common concepts like “Part Thereof.”
Now, let’s dive into a specific math concept that often stumps students: “Part Thereof.”
The topic on Rate is a Primary 5 topic that students get to learn in school. Despite being a relatively small and simple topic, many students struggle to master it and perform well on exams. But fear not, because there’s a solution, and it starts at home.
In this article, we’ll explore three simple steps parents can take to help their children excel in understanding and applying the concept of “Part Thereof.” So, grab a seat, and let’s embark on this journey together.
But first, let’s take a look at some real-life examples of “Part Thereof” in action: the parking rates displayed at HDB carparks and shopping malls.
- Show the parking rates placed at the entrance of the carparks.
- Discuss why are there different prices for different times of the day.
- Discuss some possible cost savings scenarios.
Read Also: Real-Life Applications of Primary Math Every Kid Should Know!
3 Common mistakes made by students regarding the concept of “Part Thereof”
Common Mistake #1: Misunderstanding “Part Thereof” or “Subsequent 1/2 Hour”
One common mistake students make is misunderstanding the concept of “part thereof” or “subsequent 1/2 hour” when dealing with time-based calculations, such as parking rates or rental charges. Students may struggle to grasp that when a duration extends beyond a whole unit (e.g., an hour), any additional fraction of that unit should be accounted for and included in the calculation. For example, if a parking rate applies to every hour or part thereof, students need to understand that even if a car is parked for less than a full hour, the charge will still apply for that part of the hour.
Example 1: Parking at Suntec from 10 am to 12.36pm
First hour (10 am to 11 am) = $2.20
11 am to 12.36 pm à 1.5h and 6 mins
which means there are 3 sets of ½ h + 6 mins*
*Note that the last 6 mins is also charged at a rate of $1.10.
Total cost of parking = $2.20 + (3 x $1.20) + $1.20
= $6 (Ans)
Common mistake #2: Not understanding “per entry”
Parking at Suntec from 4.30 pm to 9.30pm
First hour 4.30 pm to 5.30pm = $2.20
Since the car is still in the carpark at 5pm, hence a per entry charge of $2.20 will be imposed as well.
The car can remain in the carpark from 5pm onwards till next day 6 am
Total cost of parking = $2.20 + $2.20
= $4.40 (Ans)
Common mistake #3: Misinterpretation of “every ½ h and every 1h”
Careless reading resulting in wrongly computing the total cost. Hence it is important that the students circle or underline the important keywords “every ½ h” or “every 1h” to avoid making careless mistakes.
Understanding the concept of “part thereof” requires students to grasp the nuances of time-based calculations and accurately apply mathematical principles to real-world scenarios. By addressing these common mistakes and providing students with ample practice and guidance, educators can help them develop a solid understanding of this important mathematical concept.
Let’s try to apply the concept of “Part Thereof” that we’ve learned on actual Prelim Questions from RGPS and NYPS
RGPS 2022 Paper 2, Question 1
NYPS 2021 Paper 2, Question 1
Helping Students to Understand Essential Math Concepts, such as “Part Thereof”
At BlueTree, we understand the importance of exposing students to real-world applications of math through our 3E approach: Explore, Explain, and Extend.
By allowing students to explore math concepts, we inspire their curiosity and establish a strong groundwork for deeper understanding. Research has consistently shown that students grasp concepts more easily when they engage in hands-on experimentation and exploration. This hands-on approach makes it easier for us, as teachers, to explain abstract formulas and concepts.
Ready to embark on this enriching journey with us? Contact us here to join our trial class today and experience firsthand how our innovative approach to math education can benefit your child’s learning journey.
