Both discrete-element-method (DEM) and continuum method are used to model element tests of granular materials, including biaxial tests and simple shear tests. For the continuum method, finite element simulations with a micropolar hypoplastic model are carried out. The micropolar hypoplastic model is calibrated based on one DEM simulated biaxial test and used to predict the other DEM simulations. The comparison shows that both the micropolar hypoplastic model and the DEM method are able to capture the salient material behavior of granular material. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.