Strip Diagram: Comparison [TEKS Tools Grade 3]

This post specifically looks at how comparison strip diagrams can be used to solve a variety of problems. Read more about TEKS Tools and their rationale here.

Strip Diagram

Strip diagrams, the first TEKS Tool, account for around 40% of each 3rd grade STAAR test. Within this tool are many variations: part-whole, equal groups, and comparison (the first two being the primary types of strip diagram used).

The main function of a strip diagram is to show the relationship between the quantities in the problem situation. When the relationship is evident, students can select the correct operations and perform accurate calculations.

One thing to note about strip diagrams is that the total can be shown in a variety of ways and positions. I rotate how I represent the total to match the various representations seen on STAAR.

COMPARISON

Comparative relationships are used to solve problems involving all four operations. This type of strip diagram is need much less often than part-whole and equal groups strip diagrams.

3.4A - solve with fluency one-step and two-step problems involving addition and subtraction within 1,000 using strategies based on place value, properties of operations, and the relationship between addition and subtraction

Click on each > to expand

2023-17: two quantities were given, students had to compare

2024-22: a quantity and a comparison were given, students had to find the other quantity and then the total

2025-6: two parts were given, students had find the total and compare with the other quantity

---

3.5C - describe a multiplication expression as a comparison such as 3 x 24 represents 3 times as much as 24

Click on each > to expand

2023-26: one group and a comparison were given, students had to contextualize the comparison

2025-23: one group and a comparison were given, students had to contextualize the comparison