Strip Diagram: Equal Groups [TEKS Tools Grade 6]

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

Strip Diagram

Strip diagrams account for around 6% of each 6th grade STAAR test. Within this tool are many variations: part-whole, equal groups, and comparison. First introduced in 3rd grade, their usefulness diminishes as the numbers and operations increase in complexity.

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 vary how I represent the total to match the various representations seen on STAAR.

Equal Groups

Equal groups are used to solve problems involving multiplication and division.

6.3E - multiply and divide positive rational numbers fluently

Click on each > to expand

2023-28: the total and the number in each group were given, students had to solve for the number of groups

2024-35: the total and number in each group were given, students had to solve for the number of groups

2025-12: the number of groups and the number in each group were given, students had to solve for the total

2025-20: the total and number in each group were given, students had to solve for the number of groups

---

6.10A - balance a simple budget

Click on each > to expand

2023-35: the number of groups and the total were given, students had to solve for the number in each group