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Math educator Pam Harris describes problem strings as a “powerful teaching tool based on the idea that learning mathematics is about constructing relationships and connections.” Problem strings are defined as a purposeful sequence of problems presented to students to help them construct mathematical relationships.

Here is a video of Pam Harris working with ninth graders on constructing a mathematical relationship between the number of fruit picking works and the hours they work to clear an entire field. A few things I notice Pam doing with the students:

• A notecard with the sequential problem strings
• Writing a ratio table on the white board
• Writing what the students are thinking out loud while working through the problem strings
• Pam walks the room to listen into the individual student discussions
• Lead purposeful math dialogue throughout the exercise

This tool is inspiring me to try this teaching tool with my 6th graders as we work on multiplying and dividing decimals. Here is my problem string for dividing decimals. This exercise aims to help students understand the relationship between the factors, their product, and the decimal. It is a step away from teaching and having students memorize what to do with the decimal, but rather understanding the relationship between the factors, their product, and the placement of the decimal.

Problem String Example 1:

The students will help me figure out the bolded number while thinking of the placement of the decimal.

Problem String Example 2:

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References

What are problem strings?. Math is FigureOutAble Home. (2020, June 1). https://www.mathisfigureoutable.com/blog/problem-string