Definition
Visual model
A visual model uses meaningful marks, shapes, or positions to show a mathematical quantity, operation, or relationship.
Continue from this idea into connected AXIO math.
Boundary check: Each dot stands for one object; the 4-by-6 array carries the multiplication relationship.
What it means
A visual model lets your eyes follow the maths. Dots can show equal groups, a bar can show parts of a whole, and a number line can show size or movement. The picture is doing mathematical work, not merely decorating the page.
Remember it
Ask: What does each visible part stand for?
Example
Four rows of six dots form an array. The rows show 4 equal groups of 6, so the visual model represents 4 × 6 = 24.
Watch for
A decorative picture is not a visual model when its features do not stand for mathematical information.
Common mix-up
Visual model is a broad category; a bar model, number line, array, or diagram can be one kind of visual model.
Exact meaning
A visual model is a representation whose visible parts correspond consistently to mathematical quantities, operations, or relationships. Each important mark, shape, position, or group carries mathematical meaning.