How do you write a verbal model?

A verbal model is a way to represent a mathematical problem or situation using words. It's like a "story" that describes the problem and helps you understand the relationships between different quantities. Here's how to write one:

1. Identify the Problem: Clearly state what you're trying to solve. What is the unknown quantity you need to find?

2. Define the Variables: Assign letters (like x, y, etc.) to represent the different quantities involved in the problem.

3. Describe the Relationships: Use words to express the relationships between the variables. This may involve:

* Addition: "The sum of..."

* Subtraction: "The difference between..."

* Multiplication: "The product of..."

* Division: "The quotient of..."

* Equals: "is equal to..."

* Other operations: "twice...", "three times...", "less than..."

4. Use Concise Language: Avoid being overly wordy. Get to the point with the key information.

Example:

Problem: You want to find the total cost of buying 3 pizzas at $12 each.

Verbal Model:

* Variable:

* Let "c" represent the total cost.

* Relationship:

* "The total cost (c) is equal to the number of pizzas (3) multiplied by the cost per pizza ($12)."

Written verbally: "The total cost is equal to three times the cost per pizza."

5. Translate to an Equation: Once you have a clear verbal model, it's easy to write the corresponding mathematical equation:

* c = 3 * $12

Benefits of Verbal Models:

* Clarify the Problem: It helps you understand the problem and its components.

* Organize Your Thoughts: It lays out the information in a structured way.

* Prepare for an Equation: It provides a clear pathway to writing a mathematical equation.

Remember: A good verbal model will be clear, concise, and accurately reflect the relationships in the problem.