Facilitating a Problem String is much more than providing a list of problems. In this episode Pam shares the moment to moment decisions she makes when facilitating a "Sticks of Gum" proportional realtionship building Problem String.

Talking Points:

• Setting the stage
• How to pull out thinking
• Using this string to math with teachers in professional development
• Reinforcing mathematical behaviors
• Strategically determining wait time
• Using potential misunderstandings as learning opportunities
• Applying models to student thinking
• Deciding the order of strategies to elicit
• Choosing the numbers in the Problem String

Check out the Sticks of Gum Problem String here:
https://www.mathisfigureoutable.com/ratio-tables

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In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 24, 2025.

Note: It’s more fun if you try to solve the problem, share it on social media, comment on others strategies, before you listen to Pam and Kim’s strategies.

Check out #MathStratChat on your favorite social media site and join in the conversation.

Twitter: @PWHarris

Instagram: Pam Harris_math

Facebook: Pam Harris, author, mathematics education

Want more? Check out the archive of all of our #MathStratChat posts!

Mathematics is everywhere, but if students don't know how to reason they may not want to engage and play with numbers or see all the opportunities to do so. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss scenarios where they play with mathematical concepts in their daily lives.

Talking Points

• Playing with numbers...double, half, factors, multiples, etc.
• What numbers do they play with? House numbers, license plates, time, prices, interstate signs
• I Have, You Need with time and distance
• Which is a better deal? Cost per ounce
• Mindset to engage in play with math

Check out our social media
Twitter: @PWHarris
Instagram: Pam Harris_math
Facebook: Pam Harris, author, mathematics education
Linkedin: Pam Harris Consulting LLC