Are Problem Strings the same thing as Thin Slicing? In this episode Pam and Kim talk about the similarities between Problem Strings and Dr. Peter Liljedahl's Thin Slicing.

Talking Points:

• Example Problem String:
  • Calling on students strategically in a Problem String
  • Strategic seating arrangements for partner talk
• Similarities between Problem Strings and Thin Slicing:
  • Purposefully designed sequence of related problems
  • Problems given one at a time
  • Increasing challenge
  • Critical teacher planning
  • Open access for all students
  • Purposeful variation to keep students challenged

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In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 7, 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!

You facilitated a Problem String! ... Now what? In this episode Pam and Kim share they think about after facilitating a Problem String and what their next steps for their classroom might be.

Talking Points:
Ways to up the ante

• Echo strings
• How much to change at once
• Next Step strings
• When to move on
• When to anchor

Get Problem String books here: https://www.mathisfigureoutable.com/books

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