The ratio of Jason's money to Molly's money was 4:1. After Jason spent $26, Jason had $2 less than Molly. How much money did Jason have at first? *do not use algebra method. instead, use unit blocks*

Let's use a block or unit method to solve this problem instead of traditional algebra.

### Step 1: Understanding the ratio
The ratio of Jason's money to Molly's money is 4:1, meaning for every 4 blocks Jason has, Molly has 1 block. We can visualize their initial money as:

- Jason has 4 units (blocks)
- Molly has 1 unit (block)

### Step 2: Adjusting for the spent money
Jason then spends $26. After that, it's said that Jason has $2 less than Molly. In other words:

- Jason's remaining money = Molly's money - $2

### Step 3: Set up the units
Let’s call 1 unit the amount of money in Molly’s block. Since Jason has 4 blocks, we have:

- Jason's initial money = 4 units
- Molly's initial money = 1 unit

After Jason spends $26, he has:

- Jason's remaining money = 4 units - $26
- Molly's money = 1 unit

### Step 4: Compare their remaining money
According to the problem, after Jason spends $26, his remaining money is $2 less than Molly's. So:

- Jason's remaining money = Molly's money - $2
- (4 units - $26) = 1 unit - $2

### Step 5: Solve using blocks
Now, using blocks:

- 4 units - $26 = 1 unit - $2

Rearrange the equation to compare units:

- 4 units - 1 unit = $26 - $2
- 3 units = $24

### Step 6: Determine the value of one unit
Since 3 units equal $24:

- 1 unit = $24 ÷ 3 = $8

### Step 7: Find Jason's initial money
If 1 unit equals $8, then:

- Jason's initial money = 4 units = 4 × $8 = $32

So, Jason originally had **$32**.

Would you like any more details or have any questions?

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Here are 5 questions to expand on this:

1. What if the ratio had been 3:1 instead of 4:1?
2. How much money would Molly have if Jason had $48 initially?
3. What would happen if Jason had spent more than $26?
4. How would you solve this if Molly spent money instead of Jason?
5. Can you represent the solution in another visual way?

**Tip:** Using block or unit methods is useful for visual learners, helping to break down problems into simple, manageable parts.

Learn how to solve a ratio problem where Jason and Molly's money is compared using unit blocks. Discover the step-by-step approach without algebra, focusing on visualizing ratios and understanding proportional reasoning. Suitable for Grades 5-7.

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