Math is Figure-Out-Able!

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 21, 2026. 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… Read more

A teacher's willingness (or unwillingness) to work on their craft of teaching, no matter the reason, impacts thier students. In this episode, Pam and Kim unpack one student's perspective about why teachers do or do not teach math that is figureoutable. Talking Points: How teachers respond differently to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 14, 2026. 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… Read more

What perspective and assumptions do you bring to your teaching? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the kinds of teachers they've interacted with and their own growth as teachers. Talking Points: "Inquiry-based" + Mimicking "Direct teach" + Mimicking "Inquiry-based"+ Math-ing "Direct teach" + Math-ing Links: 1. BLOG:… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 7, 2026. 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… Read more

What can we do to keep students thinking, instead of waiting to be told what to do? In this episode Pam and Kim focus on an algebra Problem String that helps students learn to choose between strategies. Talking Points: What it mean to keep kids in "Thinking Land" How to keep students actively reasoning versus cueing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 30, 2026. 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… Read more

What does explicit teaching mean to you? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss an Adding Mixed Numbers Problem String, idenitfying exactly what teachers should be explicit about versus what they should leave for students to grapple with. Talking Points: Being explicit about the student's job during a Problem String… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 23, 2026. 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… Read more

When do we allow students more freedom, and when do we need to be more explicit? In this episode, Pam and Kim analyze a Distance vs. Removal subtraction Problem String, identifying when they are explicit and when they are not. Talking Points: Intentional contexts, number choices, and problem order Choosing which… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 16, 2026. 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… Read more

Many aspects of teaching can be improved by being more explicit. In this episode, Pam and Kim identify specific categories where explicit teaching is necessary, borrowing Piaget's distinction between social-conventional and logical-mathematical knowledge. Talking Points: Being explicit about a goal doesn't mean… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 9, 2026. 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… Read more

Is the popular discussion around "explicit teaching" helpful? Do we all envision the same thing? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss their thoughts about "explicit teaching", and which parts of mathematics require explicit teaching, and which do not. Talking Points: The difference between social-conventional… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 2, 2026. 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… Read more

What does reasoning about algebraic expressions look like? In this episode, Kim facilitates a Problem String that has Pam solving equations using equivalence. Talking Points: Using comparison to ignore commonalities on both sides of an equation Equivalence strategies are the most sophisticated Learning to think… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 26, 2026. 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… Read more

With so much to teach every year, we know you're always looking for the biggest impact for long term success for your students. In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss models that grow with students as they learn more and more mathematics. Talking Points: Verticality in practice standards, content progressions,… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 19, 2026. 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… Read more

What experiences do you seek out to become a better teacher? In this episode, Pam and Kim describe how experiences lead to beliefs, then actions, and ultimately results, They then explore the most impactful experiences available to teachers and leaders everywhere. Talking Points: "More experiences" means more than… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 12, 2026. 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… Read more

Is improving math education as simple as telling teachers and students what actions to take to achieve the desired results? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the Results Pyramid and how experiences are what builds beliefs, which inform the actions that ultimately determine our results. Talking Points: Why the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 29, 2026. 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… Read more

Rich Tasks are a powerful lesson structure and can be challenging to implement effectively. In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the preparation and approach needed to facilitate a successful Rich Task. Talking points: Know your content, know your students Importance of knowing who engages or shuts down, students'… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 29, 2026. 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… Read more

How do you cultivate flexibility in your classroom? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss expectations, perspectives, and techniques that help students develop mathematical flexibility. Talking Points: The subtle messages of "That's not what we are doing right now." Difference between feeling invited vs. feeling… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 22, 2026. 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… Read more

You already know that we seek for flexibility, efficiency, being clever, and owning a variety of mathematical strategies. But what about grading students based on how many strategies they own to solve a problem? And what does "clever" even mean? Tune in as Pam and Kim discuss their definitions of "clever" and how we… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 15, 2026. 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… Read more

How can we equip students to tackle problems that do not fit a standard algorithm? In this episode, Pam and Kim experience a Problem String intended to engage fraction reasoning without traditional algorithms. Talking Points: Equivalences Percents and fractions Genuine reasoning about fractional relationships Playing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 8, 2026. 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… Read more

We love being with mathematics educators! In this episode Pam and Kim recount their experiences at CAMT 2026. Talking Points: Feeling at home at CAMT Experiencing math at conferences Bullding relationships at conferences Should a goal be to make math 'easier'? Real world math from real questions from students Language… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 1, 2026. 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… Read more

Shout out to our leaders! Let's take a peek at some important conversations Pam and Kim have had over the years, just for you. Talking Points: Ep 65: The power of shared math and teaching experiences Ep 104: What is Math Is Figure-Out-Able? Ep 165: Caution with manipulatives Ep 201: Are algorithms bad? DMR… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 24, 2026. 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… Read more

Shout out to our 9-12 teacher friends! Let's take a peek at some important conversations Pam and Kim have had over the years, just for you. Talking Points: Ep 294: Introducing Logarithms Ep 69: Equations of Lines are Figureoutable! Ep 6: Developing Functional Reasoning Check out our social media Twitter: @PWHarris… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 17, 2026. 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… Read more

Shout out to our 6-8 teacher friends! Let's take a peek at some important conversations Pam and Kim have had over the years, just for you. Talking Points: Ep 45 - 5 Interpretations of Rational Numbers Ep 183 - Integer Subtraction Ep 266 - Solving Proportions - Within & Between Check out Pam's Books Math is… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 10, 2026. 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… Read more

Shout out to our 3-5 teacher friends! Let's take a peek at some important conversations Pam and Kim have had over the years, just for you. Talking Points: Ep 174 - Double/Half: The Most Sophisticated Multiplication Strategy Ep 29 - Ratio Tables! Ep 34 - Knowing vs Memorizing Multiplicaiton Facts Check out Pam's Books… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 3, 2026. 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… Read more

Shout out to our K-2 teacher friends! Let's take a peek at some important conversations Pam and Kim have had over the years, just for you. Talking Points: Ep 16 - Names of Teens Ep 85 - Moving Past Counting Ep 195 - Main Strategies for 1st Grade Ep 281 - How Strategies Grow Up Check out Pam's Books Math is… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 27, 2026. 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… Read more

How would you describe the difference between a classroom that emphasizes memorization and a classroom that develops mathematical reasoning? In this episode, Pam and Kim wrestle with an analogy for math classrooms. Talking Points: Importance of letting students play with what they know to learn the real game of math… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 20, 2026. 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… Read more

What benefits have you found from teaching reasoning and mathing in your classroom? In this episode, Pam shares with Kim things she learned in her recent trip to South Korea. Talking Points Learning with your students Importance of turn and talks to capture internal "aha" moments Value of vulnerability and openness in… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 3, 2026. 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… Read more

Can your students confidently reason about fraction multiplication? In this episode, Pam and Kim facilitate a Problem String that develops two strategies for fraction multiplication and discuss the thoughts that went into designing the string. Talking Points: #TryThisTuesday and #TryThisThursday Scaling with fractions… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 6, 2026. 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… Read more

Is there a 'correct' way to name math concepts? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss different naming conventions for fractions from different cultures. Talking Points: Cultural difference in how fractions are expressed in Korean, where the denominator is said and written first. Cultural convention influences the way… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 29, 2026. 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… Read more

Can you use an algorithm to solve every type of problem, or are there some problems for which algorithms leave you stranded? In this episode, Pam and Kim answer that question and share a Problem String to build fractional fluency. Talking Points: Importance of understanding the relationships between different… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 22, 2026. 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… Read more

Looking for useful games and materials for your classroom? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss some of the classroom materials and games they love and what makes them great. Talking Points: Games and resources that do NOT lead towards an algorithm The value of games with strategy choice and without time/speed… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 15, 2026. 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… Read more

How should context and models be used to build strategy? In this episode, Pam and Kim share a sequence of tasks regarding area to demonstrate a better approach for building understanding, abstraction, and strategy as a natural outcome. Talking Points Hand2mind Foundations for Strategies Use of manipulatives to feel… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 8, 2026. 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… Read more

If multiplication facts are so fundamental, why do students who memorize them struggle with multiplicative reasoning? In this episode, Pam and Kim take a hard look at what students need to succeed multiplicatively. Talking Points What does it mean to 'know' multiplication facts? Using multiplication to solve… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 1, 2026. 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… Read more

How can we prepare students to grapple with algebraic concepts? In this episode, Pam and Kim further adapt factor puzzles for developing understanding of both decomposing and combining expressions. Talking Points: Helping students understand algebraic expressions Differences in adding and multiplying variables… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 25, 2026. 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… Read more

Why is practice sometimes not enough for students to become comfortable multiplying and adding integers? In this episode, Pam and Kim explore more with Factor Puzzles, this time with integers! Talking Points: Gaining experience multiplying and adding with negative integers Purposefulness of keeping certain numbers… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 11, 2026. 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… Read more

What is a great way for student's to increase their factor fluency and move from additive reasoning to multiplicative reasoning? In this episode, Pam and Kim play with factor puzzles and describe their many benefits. Talking Points: Kim loves podcast reviews! Factor Puzzles routine Generalizing patterns to develop… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 11, 2026. 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… Read more

What does the day-to-day of a math is figureoutable classroom look like? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the new book for teachers of Grades 3-5 to transform their teaching. Talking Points: New book release for Grades 3-5! Development of Mathematical Reasoning Additive Reasoning Multiplicative Reasoning Problem… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 4, 2026. 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… Read more

Using strategies to solve problems sounds good, but what if my students don't know the basics? In this episode, Pam and Kim dispel the myth that "the basics" needed for mimicking algorithms are the same as the fundamentals for math-ing. Talking Points The limitations of rote memorization and the benefits of strategic… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 25, 2026. 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… Read more

What does it take to make real change in a school's math program? In this episode, Pam and Kim share what does and doesn't work to make lasting, systemic change in mathematics teaching for schools and school districts. Talking Points: Teachers should not have to be expert teachers and expert curriculum writers at the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 18, 2026. 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… Read more

It's great to learn from other educators. In this episode, Pam and Kim relay their experience at NCTM Spring 2026, giving their unique perspective of modern teaching trends. Talking Points: The need to define the terms curriculum, resources, scope and sequence, standards, content Clarity before competence Mathematics… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 11, 2026. 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… Read more

How can you tweak a Problem String to work perfectly for your class? In this episode, Pam and Kim share a subtraction Problem String, and then unpack what changes they'd make for different audiences. Talking Points: A subtraction Problem String with the Over strategy The purpose of "what could a Helper be"? When to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 4, 2026. 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… Read more

Introducing new math concepts can be tricky. In this episode, Pam and Kim do a Problem String to introduce logarithms in a natural, figureoutable way. Talking Points Problem String to introduce students to logarithms Differences between logarithms and algorithms Relationship between logarithms and exponents Developing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 28, 2026. 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… Read more

Are your Number Talks purposeful? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the when, how, and why of Number Talks, which they call Problem Talks. Talking Points: Problem Talk vs. Problem String When and why to use a Problem Talk Example Problem Talk of 15 x 36 Deciding whose strategy to represent Problem Talks are still… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 21, 2026. 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… Read more

There is much more to fractions than "cross multiply and divide". In this episode, Pam and Kim facilitate a Problem String to explore the partitive meaning of fractions. Talking Points: Fractions and division The partitive meaning of fractions Equivalent fractions Relational reasoning in understanding fractions… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 14, 2026. 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… Read more

Part of being a good teacher is teaching with integrity and consistency. In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the importance of knowing your beliefs about teaching and learning math to guide your choices and decision making. Talking Points: Mathematics is hierarchical Development of Mathematical Reasoning framework… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 7, 2026. 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… Read more

How did you grow in 2025? What are your goals for 2026? In this podcast, Pam and Kim reflect on 2025 and share the exciting things they are working towards in 2026. Talking Points: Recapping highlights of 2025 Problem String book series completed Development of Mathematical Reasoning anchor and companion books… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 31, 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… Read more

All teachers are different, but we should all teach intentionally. In this episode, Kim surprises Pam with a collection of favorite "Pam-isms" and asks Pam to elaborate on whether each one is an intentional teacher move and why it is important, or if it is just her personality. Talking Points Ninety-niiiiiiiiine... Is… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 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… Read more

In the season of giving, Math is Figure-Out-Able is giving some free stuff to you! In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss free opportunities to learn and grow as a teacher. Talking Points: Join the Teacher Facebook Group Podcast Episodes 156 "Start Here" Development of Mathematical Reasoning Episodes 5, 6, 67, 68 Focus… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 17, 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… Read more

Who does not love free? We do, and know you do too! In this episode, Pam and Kim kick of the 12 Days of Free, Math is Figureoutable style! Tune in to hear the first 6 FREE opportunities for supporting your math teaching. Talking Points: The Most Important Numeracy Strategies ebook #MathStratChat… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 10, 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… Read more

Why do we listen to student thinking? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss how listening is a powerful tool for both coaching and teaching. Talking Points: Why do we listen? What do we do after listening? Listening in service of moving the student or teacher forward The Success Map and Developing Mathematical… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 3, 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… Read more

Sometimes a little shift makes all the difference. In this episode, Pam and Kim describe the new mini workshop for introducing secondary teachers to the small shifts in their teaching that can bring reasoning into their classrooms. Talking Points: Cathy Fosnot's 'Young Mathematicians At Work' Introducing new 'mini'… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 26, 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… Read more

As the end of the year gets closer, it's a great time to reflect what and who we are grateful for! In this episode, Pam and Kim pause to give thanks for the wonderful work being done around the world to make math more figureoutable. Talking Points: Grateful for YOU, listeners! Grateful for our amazing teacher Facebook… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 19, 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… Read more

With so many models, what role do equations play? In this episode, Kim takes Pam through a Problem String that can only be modeled with equations and shares why. Talking Points: Fibonacci Day Utilizing choice is a mathematical behavior Differentiating instruction through strategies Swapping, not a major strategy, but… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 12, 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… Read more

Understanding math is important, and fun. In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the necessity of play in mathematics education and share when, where, and why they each play differently with math. Talking Points: Dr. Brad Ballinger's view that algorithms are...playful?? The fun and educational value of simply playing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 5, 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… Read more

There's a brand new book for K-2 teachers! In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss how strategies in early mathematics build upon each other and increase in sophistication for future learning. Talking Points: Strategies build on each other, algorithms do not The importance of building relationships and mental actions in… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 29, 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… Read more

How can we adjust our teaching to meet the needs of our students? In this episode, Pam proposes a series of rapid-fire pedagogical scenarios for Kim to respond to with her best advice. What will Kim say in 90 seconds or less? Talking Points: What to do about a student who only solves addition problems left to right?… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 22, 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… Read more

Pam and Kim went to NCSM and NCTM in Atlanta! In this episode, they share some of their favorite moments, biggest take-aways, and new insights gleaned from the sessions they attended and the people they met. Talking Points: Discussing the meaning of "algorithm" with Sarah Bush and Karen Karp, authors of The Math Pact… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 15, 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… Read more

What role can technology play in mathematics education? In this episode Pam and Kim explore a Problem String for solving systems of equations using Desmos. Talking Points: Graphing systems of equations Where lines intersect with different parent functions Using graphing to understand the behavior of a cubic function… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 8, 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… Read more

What is the difference between "knowing" and "owning" facts? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to help all students make the most of multiplication facts. Talking Points : How different people respond when asked to "memorize facts" "Own the facts" versus "Know the facts" - Do they mean the same thing? Napkin… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 1, 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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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,… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 17, 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… Read more

Have students that struggle with word problems? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the best way to help students succeed when faced with a word problem. Talking points: Why mimicking makes word problems harder Reasoners develop greater stamina Developing the feel of actions of the operations Check out our social… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 10, 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… Read more

Is the goal of math class all about getting answers? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how their work differs from those who promote traditional math classrooms and even some conceptual inquiry based classrooms. Talking Points: Teaching algorithms as the goal is detrimental What is the goal? Teachers need their own… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 3, 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… Read more

How does the definition of fluency change when your goal for math class changes? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss in some areas of mathematics they aim for fluency and how students use those relationships to build from. Talking Points: Buzzwords What are our goals? Does automaticity need to be drilled or can it… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 27, 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… Read more

How can we bridge from proportional reasoning to functional reasoning? In this episode Pam and Kim talk through a Problem String that moves students from proportional reasoning into linear functions. Talking Points: Building Proportions Problem String Thinking about "between" and "within" relationships in a ratio… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 20, 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… Read more

How do mathy people approach mathematics? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss different mathematical behaviors and the value of engendering them in students. Talking Points: Reflecting about what else you could have done that might be more sophisticated Seeking the "ooh" factor or the "aha" moment Compare strategies… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 13, 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… Read more

Does inquiry mean leaving students to their own devices? In this episode Pam and Kim share their thoughts on the debate teaching reasoning vs. teaching procedures. Talking Points: We all want what's best for students Sometimes educators talk past each other, using words without examples to give meaning Experiencing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 6, 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… Read more

How can teachers help students be more sophisticated additive reasoners? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the major addition strategies, what properties they use, and how to model student thinking. Talking Points: Addition strategies and models Addition strategies modeled with equations Proporties that the addition… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 30, 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… Read more

If your only focus is answer getting, students may never experience and grapple with and understand multiplicative properties. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to use models to help students progress to more sophisticated strategies using multiplicative properties. Talking Points: Modelling different strategies… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 23, 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… Read more

How does proportional thinking prepare students for reasoning with variables? In this episode Pam and Kim explore the transition from proportional reasoning to functional reasoning. Talking Points: Connecting proportional reasoning to linear functions Scaling triangles Proportions "within" and "between" Introducing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 16, 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… Read more

Should you require student's to show their work in mathematics? Whose work? When? How much work? For what purpose? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss classroom culture and the importance of communication in mathematics, diving into these questions and more. Talking Points: Whose work are you asking student to show?… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 9, 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… Read more

How can Problem Strings help build big ideas? In this episode Pam and Kim walk through a Problem String that helps students dig into area and multiplicative equivalence and help you know how to expertly facilitate. Talking Points: Facilitating the string Teacher moves during the string Modeling the string Equal… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 2, 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… Read more

How does a Problem String look in front of real students? In this episode Pam and Kim give a play by play for how a Problem String could be facilitated. Talking Points: When to circulate and when to ask for choral response Helping students communicate thinking How and when to engage students in conversations When to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 25, 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… Read more

What if finding equivalence between fractions, decimals, and precents wasn't just a task for students to do, but a tool making them more efficient in rational number computations? In this episode Pam and Kim talk about code switching with rational numbers to make complex problems more figure-out-able. Talking Points:… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 18, 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… Read more

Five years of important conversations, lots of laughs and a blooper every once in a while. In this episode Pam and Kim revisit some important moments of the podcast from the last 5 years. Talking Points: Clips from the past 5 years! Types of questioning Student compliance Problem Strings vs Problem Talks Math… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 11, 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… Read more

How can you get the most out of I Have, You Need in your classroom? In this podcast Pam and Kim answer some common questions and dig deeper into one of their favorite routines, I Have You Need. Talking Points: Do cars speak the language of fractions? I Have, You Need (See also Ep 7 and 164) Why it is helpful to know… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 4, 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… Read more

We've got a lot to say about screeners! In this episode Pam and Kim dig a bit more into why we screen and what we do with the results. Talking Points: Are screeners useful for diagnosing and grouping students? Are assessments important? What would be a helpful way to spend the first few weeks of school with students?… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 28, 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… Read more

Are Universal Screeners worth the time and effort? What do we gain? In this episode Pam and Kim begin their discussion about using Universal Screeners and raise some wonders for consideration. Talking Points: Defining screeners Limitations of screeners What we screen reveals what we value Screeners don't always… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 21, 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… Read more

Do Problem Strings and Thin Slicing achieve the same results? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the differences between Problem Strings and Dr. Liljedahl's Thin Slicing. Talking Points: Different purposes, different facilitation The importance of recording student thinking When non-permanent surfaces can be helpful… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 14, 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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 30, 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… Read more

You've chosen a Problem String to teach, but does it need any preparation? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how they prepare to facilitate a Problem String. Talking Points: Is it ok to adjust a pre-written Problem String? What should you include in your 'Kim's Notes'? What will your final board layout look like?… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 23, 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… Read more

Which Problem Strings are appropriate for your students? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss what they consider when choosing a Problem String for a classroom. Talking Points: A fraction addition example string Things to consider when choosing a Problem String: Prewritten vs write your own Time of year Strategies… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 16, 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… Read more

What kinds of tasks help students build multi-digit multiplication and division strategies? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to sequence tasks to develop the foundational strategies and relationships for multi-digit multiplication and division: Scaling, Over and Adjust, Partial Products, Factoring Talking… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 9, 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… Read more

What kinds of tasks help students build multi-digit addition and subtraction strategies? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to sequence tasks to develop the foundational strategies and relationships for multi-digit addition and subtraction: Friendly numbers, place value, adjusting, the commutative property,… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 2, 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… Read more

Math class is richer and more fun when the goal is more than answer-getting! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to sequence tasks to develop the foundational strategies and relationships for single digit multiplication and division: doubling, making use of ten, and partial products/quotients. Talking Points:… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 26, 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… Read more

What should the bulk of math class look like? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss sequencing tasks to build foundational relationships that develop into major strategies. Talking Points Major relationships that build the major strategies Problem Strings are one kind of task Foundational Relationships for young… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 19, 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… Read more

Why do students give up on learning math? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how using algorithms as teaching tools is distorting students' perception of what the definition of math is, which results in a poor mathematical identity. Talking Points: A mysterious five pound bag A proportional reasoning Problem String… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 12, 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… Read more

Why do students not realize their incorrect answers are completely unreasonable? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss another trap students fall into when taught to mimic algorithms as 'the way' to solve problems. Talking Points: The patterns in Remove a Friendly Number Over strategy Important place value conversations… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 5, 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… Read more

If a student can perform an algorithm, have they developed the mathematical reasoning that operation calls for? Or are they answer-getting? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a major trap students fall into when we teach mathematics as a series of steps to rotely memorize. Talking Points: A closer look at the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 26, 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… Read more

If math is figure-out-able why does the world not always teach it that way? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the three major distortions holding back math education today. Autostereograms as a metaphor How the distortions are learned How the distortions create frustration How classrooms transform without… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 19, 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… Read more

There are so many way to participate in math professional learning! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss some benefits of choosing your own learning and engaging in free opportunities. Talking Points: Traditional forms of professional development Benefits of multi-day online summits/conferences The value of a shared… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 12, 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… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim use what students know about integer multiplication to tackle integer division (without mismatching rules or randomly switching signs). Talking Points: Reasoning about integer multiplication is ground work for integer division An integer division Problem String Teacher move: time to pause… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 5, 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… Read more

One of our most requested topics! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss integer multiplication without mismatching rules or randomly switching signs. Talking Points: Whole number multiplication strategies + meaning of integers leads to integer multiplication. The meaning of integers (See episodes 169, 181, 182, 183,… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 29, 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… Read more

Is mathing just about allowing students to solve problems their way? Aren't Probem Strings and Problem Talks really just the same routine? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how Problem Strings move beyond Problem Talks to develop student's mathematical reasoning at a more sophisticated level. Talking Points: Example… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 22, 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… Read more

Math may be figureoutable, but communication can be tricky! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss things to consider in order to be clear in the message we send when we speak about mathematics education. Talking Points: Duking it out! Are algorithms fake math? A better word than mathing? What do mathematicians think… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 15, 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… Read more

People across the world are changing math education. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the documentary Counted Out that they were fortunate to see. They spotlight some of the thoughts of a few of the great researchers and add their thoughts about affecting change. Talking Points: Spoilers! The effects of algorithms… Read more

People across the world are changing math education. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the documentary Counted Out that they were fortunate to see. They spotlight some of the thoughts of a few of the great researchers and add their thoughts about affecting change. Talking Points: Spoilers! The effects of algorithms… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 8, 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… Read more

Are inverse functions figureoutable? In this episode Pam and Kim go more into the nuance of when and how we want students to tackle inverse relationships. Talking Points: When to introduce inverse proportions Experience versus instruction Allowing students to grapple to in order to experience those aha moments Problem… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 1, 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… Read more

What does it mean for something to be an inverse, or to be inversely proportional? In this episode Pam and Kim look at a specific kind of proportional reasoning. Talking Points: It's worth thinking before doing Inversely proportional vs direct variation with non-unit scaling Common misunderstandings Check out our… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 25, 2024. 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… Read more

Did you know that students can understand negative exponents without being told what they mean? In this episode Pam and Kim wrap up their series on exponent relationships. Talking Points: New listeners, where to start? Episode 156 Start Here Discovering Negative Exponents Give students experiences first and let them… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 18, 2024. 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… Read more

What if students actually understood using common factors to simplify complex division expressions? In this episode Pam and Kim divide exponents without reciting a rule. Talking Points: Thinking versus reasoning Problem String Dividing Exponents "Canceling" vs "Dividing out to equal 1" Focus on left over factors vs… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 11, 2024. 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… Read more

When variables and exponents start mixing, we need to memorize the rules, right? In this episode Pam and Kim develop exponential relationships, not rules. Talking Points: How "Kim's Notes" became "Half Sheets" Problem String to explore multiplicative relationships when working with exponents. Generalizing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 4, 2024. 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… Read more

Would you believe I'm more comfortable dealing with exponents because I haven't memorized the rules? In this episode Pam and Kim continue building exponentiation with a great problem string Talking Points: Problem string to help build exponentiation When and how to introduce vocabulary Teacher move: Choosing who… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 27, 2024. 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… Read more

Can we prepare students for really hairy exponent problems without resorting to memorized rules? In this first episode of a series, Pam and Kim share a task that could get kids and teachers thinking more and more multiplicatively and understandably about exponents. Talking Points: Can a task have too many layers for… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 20, 2024. 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… Read more

Should high school mathematicians be given choice of which strategy to use? In this episode Pam and Kim wrap up their exploration of systems of equations. Talking Points: What is needed to understand 3x? Where students mess up using substitution How do different systems lend themselves to different strategies? Ketchup… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 13, 2024. 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… Read more

Don't you think math needs more cookies in it? In this episode Pam and Kim use Desmos graphing calculator to go through a routine to make sense of systems of equations before doing any elimination or substitution. Talking Points: Kim going to a Cafe for sandwiches and cookies Graphing on Desmos graphing calculator… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 6, 2024. 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… Read more

Do we flip the sign when its negative? Or is it we keep the sign and flip the minus? I'm confused! In this episode Pam and Kim avoid all that confusion and make solving inequalities figureoutable! Talking Points: Open Number Lines for Inequalities Using "Reflecting the inequality" vs "flipping the sign" Reasoning… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 30, 2024. 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… Read more

Solving equations is figureoutable! In this episode Pam and Kim do a follow up string to last week's episode to further develop algebraic reasoning. Talking Points Using a double open number line to build proportional reasoning Using what you know to find x and explore multiple relationships Understanding equations vs… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 23, 2024. 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… Read more

Do we need to memorize a bunch of rules to solve linear equations or can we reason about them? In this episode Pam and Kim use a model to make thinking visible and keep students reasoning! Talking Points: Modeling on a double open number line Finding where x lies on a double open number line. Grappling with the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 16, 2024. 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… Read more

How can we help students who have always mimicked learn to reason through the content we need to teach? In this episode Pam and Kim lay out their approach to getting students up to speed while preparing them for the content of the day. Talking Points: How to avoid students feeling belittled Using a 1/3, 2/3 mindest to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 9, 2024. 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… Read more

Do your students struggle with place value? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss great tasks to build real place value understanding for students of all ages. Talking Points: "Adding a zero" vs shifting place value Place Value versus Place Labeling Avoiding rules that expire Build a Number activity Place Value… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 2, 2024. 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… Read more

We love the math teaching community! In this episode Pam and Kim are live from NCTM and discuss the many things they are learning from other math teaching educators at NCSM and NCTM in Chicago. Talking Points: Too many great sessions to list! But here are a few. Announcing: Developing Mathematical Reasoning: Avoiding… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 25, 2024. 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… Read more

How do you plan for the content you teach? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss task sequencing and a new resource for every classroom. Talking Points: Determining the big ideas, strategies, models Alternating between instructional routines Leading into and getting out of a rich task Introducing Foundations For… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 18, 2024. 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… Read more

You all know we love playing games in the classroom. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the advantages of playing games to change students attitudes and beliefs about math, and just have some fun. Talking Points: The benefits of games They don't even have to be math games Multiple Machine by Michael Minas Check out… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 11, 2024. 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… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a fun way for students to practice their geometry vocabulary and relationships. Talking Points: Geometry riddles Hierarchies of polygons Practice vocabulary in a meaningful way, in context Check out our social media Twitter: @PWHarris Instagram: Pam Harris_math Facebook: Pam Harris,… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 4, 2024. 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… Read more

How can you intentionally build a Math is FigureOutAble culture in your classroom? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss Pam's recent month long trip to Australia and the important teacher moves she showcased in the lab lessons while she was there. Talking Points: Pam's time Down Under Wait time Private Signal Focus on… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 28, 2024. 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… Read more

Statistics Problem Strings? Yes Please! In this episode Pam and Kim demonstrate a Problem String that helps students develop intuition for the meanings of mean, median, and mode. Talking Points: Names are social knowledge, but the feel for what they mean in the data is logical mathematical knowledge Experience with… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 21, 2024. 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… Read more

Is statistics figureoutable? In this episode Pam and Kim explore a Problem String to build logical mathematical sense for the meaning of mean. Talking Points: What is the mean? Just in time vocabulary Social vs Logical Mathematical knowledge Understanding mean/average is much more than performing an averaging… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 14, 2024. 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… Read more

We were joined by Jenna Laib at our last challenge where she facilitated an amazing routine called Slow Reveal Graphs. In this episode Pam and Kim share that same Slow Reveal Graph and explain along the way why it makes for such an impactful tool to teach data analysis and interpretation for students K-12. Talking… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 7, 2024. 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… Read more

Have you ever discoverd a super task or routine online only not be able to find it again when you really need it? In this episode Pam and Kim share Sembl, a curation of free, online math resources for your classroom that are filtered for quaility and organized for ease of use. Resources ready for you to integrate into… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 31, 2024. 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… Read more

It is helpful to find the particular lens to focus your own learning, in order to make real progress. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss planning and sequencing to keep the math moving forward in your classroom. Talking Points The stages help teachers focus their energy Writing an 'Echo' Problem String Write an 'Up… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 24, 2024. 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… Read more

You've worked hard to build your numeracy and already own the strategies and models for your operation that you're working on. What's next? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss Teacher Moves, the fourth stage on the Success Map. Talking Points: Differentiate for teachers' needs like they differentiate for students… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 17, 2024. 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… Read more

Ready to chat about the next layer of the Success Map? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss using your understanding of the relationships to represent student thinking. Talking Points: The stages layer and build on each other Different stages for different areas of math you are working on Use your own understanding of… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 10, 2024. 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… Read more

What's next on the landscape for teachers after they've built their own math understanding in a particular area? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss math for teaching, the next layer on the Success Map that teachers should consider as they are learning how to make math more figure-out-able for themselves and their… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 3, 2024. 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… Read more

What does a landscape look like for teachers trying to develop their skills to facilitate real math? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss one stage of the Success Map. Talking Points: Teachers, like students, are in different places in their journey in teaching real math. Designing the Success Map was not trivial… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 26, 2024. 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… Read more

How can students gain fact fluency in a productive, fun way? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss Number Hive, a game that builds students multiplication fact fluency. Talking Points: Product Game is great, but Number Hive is even better How to play Number Hive Who will win? Kim or Pam? A product approach to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 19, 2024. 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… Read more

Developing multiplicative reasoning, let alone learning multiplication facts, has never been more fun. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss Stick and Split, a simple digital game your students or own kids can explore to learn multiplication in a whole new way. Talking Points: We don't recommend products lightly - Stick… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 12, 2024. 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… Read more

What does it look like when students confidently and efficiently reason through fraction multiplication problems? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss more sophisticated and efficient strategies for solving fraction multiplication problems. Talking Points: How to model the commutative property in fraction… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 5, 2024. 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… Read more

Can students reason through fraction multiplication beyond unit fractions? In this episode Pam and Kim finish out last week's Problem String and build on those relationships to reason through more complex fraction multiplication problems. Talking Points: Can building Additive and Multiplicative reasoning with whole… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 29, 2024. 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… Read more

This week we're kicking off our series on fraction multiplication! In this episode Pam and Kim describe a classroom's experience discovering unit fraction multiplication. Talking Points: We sometimes have to hear something multiple times for it to "click" What is 1/4 of 1/5? Suggestions for modeling fractions and why… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 22, 2024. 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… Read more

When should students use calculators? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to help students determine when and for what reasons to turn to technology. Talking Points Help students learn judicious use of technology Great game: Beat the Calculator Do you know enough to put that in your calculator? What about… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 15, 2024. 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… Read more

Is your classroom a place where students' thinking is valued? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss building a healthy classroom culture. Talking Points: Know your content, but also know your kids Me versus us statements Walking the line of planning for the community and being part of the community A great place to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 8, 2024. 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… Read more

What kind of instructional routines should you use in your classroom? In this episode Pam and Kim describe why instructional routines are useful and what makes some of their favorites shine. Talking Points: Unlocking creativity and reasoning with routine Content flexibility within routines The downside to one and done… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 1, 2024. 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… Read more

All students can learn more math when it is taught as figure-out-able! In this episode Pam and Kim wade into trigonometry and make sense of it as they go. Talking Points: Making sense of Pi and angle measure of a circle Defining radians Understanding the unit circle A Problem String using a unit circle The importance… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 24, 2024. 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… Read more

Got questions about the Math Is Figureoutable movement? In this lightning round episode, Pam and Kim answer questions and address misconceptions they've heard people have. Talking Points: Is it only about Problem Strings? Does math-ing have be done in all in your head? Is "one and done" desirable? Are we doing "Pam… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 17, 2024. 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… Read more

We're so excited to celebrate our 200th episode with you! In this episode Pam and Kim change up their intro and discuss how the things they've learned continue to shape how they spread the Math is FigureOutAble movement today. Talking Points: 200 Episodes!!! Is the math mathing? Pam, a former mimicker Perspectives… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 10, 2024. 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… Read more

Real math is never fun and cute, or is it? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a cartoon they've fallen in love with that builds number sense intuitively and entertainingly. Talking Points: What is Numberblocks? What makes it stand our? Different representations of numbers Squares Doubling Math symbols Odd and even… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 3, 2024. 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… Read more

What can schools use to create a shared vision for math instruction? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the New York Department of Education's Look Fors for School-Wide Mathematics Teaching and Learning. Talking Points Who is this Look For for? Specifics for equity around scheduling teachers with an eye on content… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 27, 2024. 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… Read more

What conversations can teachers and coaches have about improving instruction in the classroom? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the Look Fors for Teachers provided by the New York Department of Education. Talking Points: Coaching requires more than observation or modeling a lesson Avoid analysis paralysis Coaching… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 20, 2024. 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… Read more

What goals do you have for your classroom? How do you measure your success? How to plan to achieve those goals? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss New York City's Look Fors for Students and how they can help us focus on the changes we want to see in our classrooms. Talking Points: Kim and Pam have different styles… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 13, 2024. 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… Read more

When should you start developing which relationships? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the important addition relationships for first grade and how to develop them throughout the year. Talking Points: When do I teach what? Download The Most Important Numeracy Strategies Free Ebook! We want students to understand… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 6, 2024. 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… Read more

Can we really be efficient in solving multiplication problems without algorithms? What about the really cranky ones? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the quarter strategy- a clean, efficient, figureoutable way of solving traditionally difficult multiplication problems. Talking Points: Baby strategies! What?! A… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 28, 2024. 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… Read more

What message do we want to send to students about compliance? In this episode Pam and Kim talk about the importance of respecting student dignity and separating math from punishment. Talking Points: Senario of compliance Reasons we seek compliance from students Math is not a punishment or taking it away, a reward Pam… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 21, 2024. 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… Read more

A huge part of any teacher's life is classroom management, setting expectations, and compliance. In this episode Pam and Kim consider when compliance might or might not be helpful in a math classroom. Talking Points: Sucked down the Math Is Figureoutable vortex Would you rather have compliant students? Or have… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 14, 2024. 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… Read more

Thinking and reasoning is always more powerful than rotely memorizing steps. In this episode Pam and Kim demonstrate how to help students reason about Order of Operations. Talking Points: Nat Banting's "Oops, I Meant" Representing a context using the grouping symbols to communicate Demonstrate how mathematicians… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 7, 2024. 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… Read more

Order of operations seems more rote memorizable than figure-out-able, or is it? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the pitfalls of teaching order of operations as an acronym to memorize, and offer a better alternative. Talking Points: It's about communication rather than a thing to memorize. The notation is social… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 31, 2024. 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… Read more

Finding a fraction of something can be a tricky concept. In this episode Pam and Kim run through two strings that help reason about using fractions as operators. Talking Points: How are unit fractions related like halves, fourth and eighths? Scaling and Over Strategy with unit fractions Fractions as operators Why is… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 24, 2024. 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… Read more

Does it really matter what we call the whole? In this episode Pam and Kim take a closer look at fraction problems where the unit matters. Talking Points: Kim and the beach How can there be 2 possible answers to the question "What is 1/2?" Focusing on the unit Naming the unit What happens when the unit changes? Help… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 17, 2024. 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… Read more

How many people do you know that shy away from fractions? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss why teaching students to use step by step procedures to solve fraction problems actually leaves them not able to think about fractions at all. Talking Points: We love hearing your stories! What kind of reasoning do fractions… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 10, 2023. 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… Read more

Minus-minus, plus-plus, or is integer subtraction actually figureoutable? In this episode Pam and Kim use a Problem String to build real understanding of integer subtraction. Talking Points: The importance of having multiple contexts Seeing the negative symbol as "opposite of" Using distance Understanding takes time,… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 3, 2024. 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… Read more

Tracking students and sorting them into 'higher'/'lower' tracks is a topic that we have really, really firm feelings about. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the unintended consequences of tracking students and offer some ideas to consider. Talking Points Who does tracking benefit, who does it hurt? Distaste for the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 27, 2023. 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… Read more

Happy holidays! Pam and Kim invite you to revisit Ep 87, it's super important! How do you navigate teaching math that is figure-out-able if your standards include the teaching of algorithms? Talking Points: All year long invest your time wisely helping kids learn to reason, increasing their sophistication of… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 20, 2023. 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… Read more

Can integer subtraction feel intuitive without rote memory? In this episode Pam and Kim delve into a Problem String and explore integer subtraction relationships. Talking Points: Integer chips? Students reason about subtracting integers Distance versus removal Problem String subtracting integers in context When… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 13, 2023. 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… Read more

Mimicking rules for integer operations does not help students become doers of Real Math, and frankly doesn't often stick in their long term memory. In this episode Pam and Kim walk through a Problem String that helps students develop an intuitive understanding of integer addition! Talking Points: Exploring the beach… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 6, 2023. 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… Read more

How can we help students reason about integers? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss fun and natural ways to explore and understand both positive and negative integers. Talking Points: The Pen/Pencil argument continues 5th graders can reason about integers Games do develp understanding of integers Clothes line math… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 29, 2023. 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… Read more

How do you label fractions on an open number line? How do you label a fraction of a candy bar? How many cuts do you make to cut a candy bar into fourths? Pam and Kim invite you to revisit episode 138, this time with an ear towards fractions. Do your students ever get confused about counting obects vs counting… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 22, 2023. 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… Read more

What does it mean when we say 'fake math' or 'less sophisticated'? Pam and Kim discuss how learning Real Math is empowering and opens a whole new world of understanding. Talking Points: Are squared numbers an important thing to own? The Matrix It takes experience to understand perspectives Martians Doing 'fake math'… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 15, 2023. 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… Read more

We can be our own kids' best teachers, even when it comes to gnarly division problems. In this episode Pam and Kim relay their experiences exploring decimal division with their own kids. Talking Points: A tool for holding your thinking - a ratio table It's not about how much you can hold in your head Help them start… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 8, 2023. 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… Read more

Recorded live from NCTM! Pam and Kim discuss some of their experiences and takeaways from the 2023 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics conference. Talking Points: Travel stories As kids grow, teachers grow as well Know your content know your kids to choose Problem Strings for your students Tools that focus on… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 1, 2023. 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… Read more

Place value is so much more than labeling digits. In this episode Pam and Kim dive into place value and common teaching practices that are necessary, but not enough. Talking Points: A fascination with the macabre Typical place value labeling and additional things you can think about to develop place value Precise… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 25, 2023. 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… Read more

Division is figure-out-able! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the most sophisticated strategy for division and precursors that students can begin developing in the fourth grade! Talking Points: An Equivalent Ratios Problem String Precursor relationships Scaling up or Scaling down What makes Equivalent Ratios the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 18, 2023. 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… Read more

Our students can learn to approach math problems like mathematicians! In this episode Pam and Kim look at one of the most sophisticated multiplication strategies that many mathematicians use. Talking Points: Creating an equivalent problem by Doubling and Halving. What makes a problem reasonable to solve without a… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 11, 2023. 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… Read more

Some subtraction strategies can only get you so far, but with a little more sophistication complex problems become really nice to think and reason about! In this episode Pam and Kim build and discuss the Constant Difference strategy for subtraction and use it to solve a really gnarly problem. Talking Points:… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 4, 2023. 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… Read more

What makes a strategy sophisticated? In this episode Pam and Kim build the most sophisticated strategy and talk about how and why to develop it with students. Talking Points: What are the most sophisticated strategies? Strategies that require more simultaneity require more time to develop Simultaneous versus… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 27, 2023. 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… Read more

Kids learn best with support from their parents, and helping with math has never been easier! In this episode, Pam and Kim are excited to share some tips about how to encourage your children as they grow in mathematical thinking and reasoning. Talking Points: Wait a little longer Resist the urge to tell the right… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 20, 2023. 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… Read more

This one's for all you, parents! How can you support your children in becoming mathematicians? In this episode Pam and Kim go over their favorite ways to explore math at home in fun game-like activities. Talking Points: Speak about math positively Wondering Doubling and Halving Using 10s to find 9s and using 10s to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 13, 2023. 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… Read more

Can you reason about what it means for a point to be within a given quadrant? Can your students? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss weather and geography to develop understanding of the quadrants in the cartesian coordinate system. Talking Points: Understanding points relative to their quadrants and the y = x line… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on September 6, 2023. 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… Read more

Let's do some guessing! In this episode Pam and Kim develop some functional reasoning by analyzing the relationships between their guesses and reality. Talking Points: Pam's guesses using her pop culture knowledge How would you know if you are a good guesser? Graphing guesses and actual age as an ordered pair Using… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 30, 2023. 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… Read more

What does it mean for math to be figure-out-able? What will you teach? How? Why? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss their thoughts to changing the "how" and "what" of math education around the world and explore the "why". Talking Points: "What" math we teach should come first "How" the math should be embedded in the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 23, 2023. 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… Read more

What role does terminology have in math teaching? How do we want students to approach problems? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss when to teach vocabulary how we can prepare students to tackle problems with confidence. Talking Points: "Just In Case" vs "Just In Time" vocabulary Social Knowledge vs Logical… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 16, 2023. 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… Read more

There is so much that is good happening in the math teaching community! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how we can determine how much of which good things to put into our classrooms. Talking Points: Going beyond nixing tricks Social versus logical knowledge Nixing the tricks is more than explaining the math better… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 9, 2023. 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… Read more

Who does not love a quick, easy routine that gives students useful problem solving relationships? In this episode Pam and Kim revisit I Have, You Need and apply it with different target numbers. Talking Points: Kim and Pam play I Have, You Need often with clocks and marathons It's not about speed Goal is reducing… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on August 2, 2023. 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… Read more

What exactly is a Problem String? In this episode Pam and Kim dig into that question and give examples of what a problem string is and is not. Talking Points: Pam's conversation with Howie Hua - Problem Strings are not strategies Example of a helper clunker structure Problem String What is structure vs strategy?… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 26, 2023. 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… Read more

What are some important relationships that students can use to do Real Math with fractions? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss some important relationships that can help develop deeper understanding about fractions for fractional equivalence and comparison. Talking Points: A listener's review Using benchmark… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 19, 2023. 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… Read more

What if your students could think and reason about the relative sizes of fractions? In this episode Pam and Kim think about where fractions go on clotheslines to show how you can help your students compare fractions without a memorized procedure. Talking points: A podcast listener shares her perspective of mathematics… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 12, 2023. 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… Read more

How we teach and what we teach are both really important. In this episode Pam and Kim wrap up their discussion on Peter Liljedahl's book Building Thinking Classrooms and how it meshes with the Math Is Figure-Out-Able movement. Talking Points: When we suggest to defront the classsroom Don't let language hamper the math… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on July 5, 2023. 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… Read more

We think Dr. Peter Liljedahl has some great ideas about how to keep students thinking and reasoning in math class. In this episode Pam and Kim continue to discuss some of his ideas and how they align with the Math is Figure-Out-Able mindset. Talking Points: Which questions to answer Get in, get out Approach groups… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 28, 2023. 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… Read more

We love it when students are thinking and reasoning, and it's important to know how best to build and experience sophisticated strategies. In this episode Pam and Kim continue discussing Dr. Peter Liljedahl's work and finetune where it's appropriate to use vertical nonpermanent surfaces, and what other kind of tasks… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 21, 2023. 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… Read more

We want our students to be confident problem solvers who can think and reason through complex problems. In this episode, Pam and Kim highlight some of Dr. Peter Liljedahl's work on Building Thinking Classrooms to use student's natural inclinations to help them work better and more collaboratively. Talking Points: It's… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 14, 2023. 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… Read more

We've reached our third anniversary of the podcast! There's a lot that's been said, so we thought we'd highlight some of the quintessential Pam Harris topics from previous episodes that you need to transform your math classroom. In this episode Pam and Kim blitz through what makes the Math is Figure-out-able Movement… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on June 7, 2023. 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… Read more

Can kids reason about fraction division? In this episode Pam and Kim explore the definition of fractions through a Problem String and show how you can help students build experiences so that fraction division is a natural outcome. Talking Points: Can students reason about 1/25 divided by 4? Dividing parts of candy… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 31, 2023. 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… Read more

It's exciting to watch our students gain confidence and mathematize with the best of them, but what about next year? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how you can communicate expectations to students and teachers alike to embolden your students that math will always be figure-out-able. Talking Points: What is your… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 24, 2023. 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… Read more

How sophisticated is your multiplicative reasoning? In this episode Pam and Kim build Flexible Factoring and show how powerful understanding can be! Talking Points: We love hearing from listeners! A Problem String Develping distributive, associative and commutative properties Where does Flexible Factoring fit into… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 17, 2023. 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… Read more

How do you naturally approach math problems? How do you wish you would naturally approach problems? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how we as teachers and our students can form powerful new habits to become better mathematicians. Talking Points: We all have habits based on our own experiences Can we change our old… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 10, 2023. 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… Read more

How can we help students own subtraction facts? In this episode Pam and Kim describe some basic strategies and then walk us through facilitating two Problem Strings to build subtraction relationships. Talking Points: I Have, You Need - see Episode 7 for more on I Have, You Need Patterns in a subtraction chart… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on May 3, 2023. 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… Read more

We're digging deep into subtraction! In this episode Pam and Kim talk about what they mean by "memorizing" single digit subtraction facts and the relationships that can empower students to own single digit facts and apply the same relationships to more sophisticated numbers as well. Talking Points: The different… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 26, 2023. 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… Read more

There's so much power to understanding subtraction that extends all the way to higher math. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss beginning steps to help students develop an understanding of subtraction, preparing them for success. Talking Points: How does I Have, You Need apply to subtraction? Subtracting across zeros… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 19, 2023. 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… Read more

Establishing a strong understanding of the area model also prepares students for more advanced topics all the way into college! In this episode, Pam and Kim describe how useful the area model is as a foundation for further understanding throughout a student's learning career. Talking Points: Using the area model… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 12, 2023. 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… Read more

The area model can do more than build Spatial Reasoning. It can help make sense of the major multiplication and division strategies! In this episode Pam and Kim use a Problem String to show how reasoning about area can build more sophisticated and efficient multiplicative relationships. Talking Points: Multiplication… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on April 5, 2023. 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… Read more

The area model is a great tool to help students develop multiplicative and spatial reasoning, but let's get clear on some things. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss some of the common misconceptions about the area model and show how it can be used help students make connections between area and multiplication.… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 29, 2023. 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… Read more

There are a lot of small shifts needed in math education, and they can have huge impacts. In this episode Pam and Kim talk about some of these shifts that will be included in the new mini workshop. This workshop will help you address the most important things to get right as a math teacher. Talking Points: Algorithms… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 22, 2023. 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… Read more

Sure, simple fraction division is figure-out-able, but what about gnarly fractions? In this episode Pam and Kim uncover simple relationships that make division of any fractions figure-out-able! Talking points: What happens when the fractions aren't as nice, especially fractions where their denominators are not factors… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 15, 2023. 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… Read more

Fraction division does not have to be scary, and it certainly does not have to be memorized. In this episode Pam and Kim show how to reason through non unit fraction division problems. Talking Points: What is a unit fraction? What does it mean to think quotitively about division? A Problem String building on unit… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 8, 2023. 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… Read more

Is fraction division figure-out-able? You bet! In this episode Pam and Kim tackle another listener submitted topic and reason through a fraction division Problem String. Talking Points: A sign of fake math An old wound for Pam and Kim A listener's question Two ways of thinking about division: partitively and… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on March 1, 2023. 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… Read more

As teachers we want to help our students, and often we do that through questioning. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how maybe there isn't a perfect list of questions, but it's our pattern of questioning that matters. Talking Points We love hearing your suggestions Focusing on a list of questions vs a pattern of… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 22, 2023. 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… Read more

Have you ever noticed how many different meanings there are for the word simplify? Even if you limit it to mathematical meanings, there's a lot. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how we can better communicate with students what we really want them to do when we say 'simplify.' Talking Points: Asking students to… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 15, 2023. 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… Read more

Happy Valentines Day! We love math, and we love you, our listeners! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a less familiar addition and subtraction strategy that they're coming to love more and more. Talking Points: A Problem String to build relationships in order to use common factors in addition and subtraction… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 8, 2023. 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… Read more

Do you ever fall into the "off by one" trap? Do your students ever get confused about counting objects vs counting distance? In this episode Pam and Kim use a Problem String to help build intuition about everyday subtraction problems. Talking Points: Experience a Problem String to build relationships Fencepost… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on February 1, 2023. 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… Read more

The world is changing, and artificial intelligence is going to replace teachers! ...Or not. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how teaching Real Math is more important now than ever, and we don't have to be afraid of those pesky robots. Talking Points: How Chat GPT is different from AI like Photomath A teacher's… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 25, 2023. 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… Read more

When do you offer students help and what kinds of help do you offer? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the balance of what kinds of help to give students and also where to find just the right help as teachers. Talking Points: Encouragement alone isn't enough help Modeling thinking doesn't mean to take over the… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 18, 2023. 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… Read more

What does it take to change our perspectives so we can teach more and more Real Math? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how they can help YOU when you join the You Can Change Math Class Challenge! Talking Points: What is the Challenge anyway? Is the math you do at home different from the math you do in school?… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 11, 2023. 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… Read more

We have heard from both teachers and leaders that it's a struggle to know what to look for in a Math is Figure-out-able classsroom and how to evaluate it, and help each other better our teaching craft. In this episode Pam and Kim go through the NCTM Effective Teaching practices and discuss and suggest conversations… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on January 4, 2023. 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… Read more

It's our wrap up episode on ratio tables. In this episode Pam and Kim answer some frequently asked questions and talk about how we can take ratio tables into higher math and beyond. Talking Points: Why teachers erase and when should students erase? Do, Say, Represent: how to help students represent what's going on in… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 28, 2022. 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… Read more

It's time to talk equivalent ratios and fractions! In this episode Pam and Kim demonstrate how understanding equivalent ratios leads to powerful reasoning about fraction operation, without the need to memorize steps and rules or algorithms. Talking Points: Empowerment is about having choice Ratio tables aren't a… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 21, 2022. 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… Read more

Have we convinced you to love ratio tables as much as we do yet? In this episode Pam and Kim tackle another model building Problem String to show what a powerful model a ratio table can be. Talking Points: A non-unit ratio Problem String Ratios must be equivalent in a ratio table Reasoning proportionally can be much… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 14, 2022. 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… Read more

We can't get enough of ratio tables! In this episode Pam and Kim go through another division Problem String, highlighting how they model-represent their thinking on ratio tables. They invite listeners to grab a pen or pencil and practice representing their own thinking on a ratio table. Talking Points: Noticings from… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on December 7, 2022. 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… Read more

Why are ratio tables so amazing? In this episode Pam and Kim describe ratio tables and what makes it on the favorite mathematical models short list. Then they show it off with a Problem String. Talking Points: What is a ratio table? Can ratio tables be both vertical or horizontal? Does the context of a ratio table… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 30, 2022. 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… Read more

Do your students ever say things like, "I just know" or "I don't know"? What can we do with that? How can we help students have meaningful discussions about their thinking and why is it so important? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss the challenges of saying and representing our thinking, and how we can help… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 23, 2022. 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… Read more

We're wrapping up our series on the Over strategy. In this episode Pam and Kim reason through a Problem String to develop the Over strategy for division. Talking Points: A Problem String to develop relationships for the Over strategy for division Great teacher move that we call "the trail off method" to help students… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 16, 2022. 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… Read more

We are not over with the Over strategy! This week Pam and Kim dive into the Over strategy for multiplication. Talking Points: A new name for the Double and Half strategy? A Problem String to develop relationships for the Over strategy for multiplication Where Over strategy for multiplication fits in the hierarchy of… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 9, 2022. 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… Read more

We just love the Over strategy! In this episode Pam and Kim go through a Problem String to develop the relationships used to think about the Over strategy for subtraction. Talking Points: Over strategy is a great experience for people new to thinking Real Math. The Over strategy is one of the major relationships that… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on November 2, 2022. 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… Read more

In case you haven't noticed, Kim has a favorite strategy. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss one of the most important strategies and how to use it for addition. Talking Points: Great listener feedback! A Problem String Where does the Over Strategy fit in the hierarchy of strategies? How does the Over Strategy help… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 26, 2022 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… Read more

How can we help cement students' learning without memorizing steps? In this episode Pam and Kim share the power of anchor charts and how you can make them with your students. Talking Points: What is an anchor chart? Why have students co-create the anchor chart with teacher fascilitation? Why is "Do, Say, Represent"… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 19, 2022. 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… Read more

When dealing with word problems it can be tricky for students to decide which operation to use, so we need a way to help them memorize what to do in any given situation... right? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how reasoning empowers students to skip rotely memorized steps to choosing operations and get straight… Read more

In today’s MathStratChat, Pam and Kim discuss the MathStratChat problem shared on social media on October 12, 2022. 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… Read more

When we teach Real Math, students come up with all sorts of cool strategies! But which ones are the main strategies, and how do we make the distinction? In this episode Pam and Kim take a listener submitted strategy and discuss where and what its uses are. Talking Points: The Most Important Numeracy Strategies are a… Read more

What fun rhymes will best help your students learn to round? Just kidding! In this episode Pam and Kim describe their wholistic approach to rounding that helps kids build relationships like place value! Talking Points: No rhymes needed. Modeling on a number line to reason about how far a number is from a landmark.… Read more

Finding elapsed time can be a tricky concept, but when combined with a number line, we can make it figureoutable! Join Pam and Kim as they discuss using addition strategies to find elapsed time. Talking Points: Daily schedule on an open number line I Have, You Need with combinations of 60 How students might approach… Read more

Do your students struggle tracking time or reading an analog clock? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss three simple ways you can help your students internalize time and elapsed time. Talking Points: Help students build a feel for benchmark units of time Notice and tell what time it is a lot with kids Notice aloud how… Read more

A lot of people feel like when it comes to high school math, it's just not possible to think and reason through things anymore. Not true! In this episode Pam and Kim make the transition from Proportional Reasoning to Functional Reasoning and writing the equation of a line using relationships and what students already… Read more

What does teaching Real Math look like at your grade level? In the last episode Pam and Kim discussed the One Third/Two Thirds rule to structure math time. In this episode they give specific examples at various grade levels of what it might really look like. Talking Points: 1st Grade - doubling and halving 3rd Grade -… Read more

A listener asked how would we structure our math class. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the approach they'd take to provide their students with the best math education experience possible to learn Real Math and still meet their required standards and scope and sequence. Talking Points: The Two-Third/One-Thirds… Read more

The school year is starting! For this exciting time, Pam and Kim want to discuss what starting strategies can help you and your students to build thinking relationships and strategies rather than simply answer getting. Talking Points: Problem Talks are great ways to pre-assess your students Partial strategies are a… Read more

How can you make changes in your math classroom to help your students do more Real Math? In this episode Pam and Kim describe some first steps, and bigger steps, you can take to transform your math class. Talking Points: Creating a safe mathematical community conducive for Real Math to happen Wait time - "Do you want… Read more

We sure loved discussing the open number line model last week, but have you ever heard of the double open number line? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how the double open number line can be used to develop Proportional Reasoning and to think and reason about rates. Talking Points: A Problem String to reason about… Read more

The open number line is not just a powerful tool for computation, but it's an amazing model for developing all sorts of mathematical concepts! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to help students develop the open number line in a natural and meaningful way. Talking Points: What is an open number line vs a closed… Read more

Multiplying decimals can be fun! In this episode Pam and Kim tackle several gnarly problems like 0.77 x 2.4, and have a blast doing it. Talking Points: Building reasoning allows students to be flexible and have fun with decimal multiplication Kim uses percent and money to solve 0.77 x 2.4 with confidence (no need for… Read more

Being able to scale comfortably is important for both whole and decimal numbers. And just as there are more sophisticated ways to handle scaling with whole numbers, we can also be more sophisticated scaling decimals! In this episode Pam and Kim describe how we can help students become comfortable with decimal… Read more

How can we help students make sense of decimal multiplication? In this episode Pam and Kim run through two beginning Problem Strings that will get students feeling comfortable and understanding the world of multiplying decimals. Talking Points: Which models are helpful Decimals and money Students need to develop a few… Read more

We've gotten a ton of questions about decimals. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss three different models and why they are great for questioning and building relationships, but may or may not be good for computation. Talking Points: Base Ten Materials Exploding Dots by James Tanton Money

Most students can scale up by ten as they begin to multiply larger numbers and that is a great starting place for students. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a more sophisticated way of scaling numbers in multiplication problems. Talking Points: How beginning learners will use multiplying by 10 in double digit… Read more

Often people misunderstand what this game we call mathematics is and feel they aren't good enough to play. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how students need the opportunity to experience and play in the real game of mathematics. Talking Points: Mathematizing is not about speed Pam, the basketball player It's not… Read more

It's our two year anniversary! We are so grateful you've spent this time with us. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss openly things they've learned and how they've grown during their journey as math teacher educators. Talking Points: It's not 'Pam Math', it's Real Math and developing mathematicians! Coaching teachers… Read more

What are some examples of rich tasks that are designed to intrigue and engage students? In this episode Pam and Kim give some specific examples and describe why they are so rich. Talking Points: Relatable to students not just real world An eye towards equity Lead to the mathematics Packed with patterns Natural… Read more

Let's talk rich tasks! On Twitter we enjoyed a great conversation about what makes a rich task rich. We thought we'd comment on some great suggestions from Professor Tad Watanabe, inspired from his mentor Dr. Grayson Weatley. Talking Points: Invite students to make decisions Replete with patterns Promote discussion… Read more

What comes to mind when someone says the word "strategy"? There are at least four different meanings for the word "strategy" in mathematics teaching. In this episode Pam and Kim parse out the different meanings and discuss how those meanings shape the outcomes of our teaching. Talking Points: Numeracy Strategies… Read more

We love that we've been able to make 100 episodes! We also love that 1 hundred is 10 tens, so let's talk place value! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss why students struggle with place value, and suggest some of their favorite place value activities. Talking Points: Why 'place labeling' is ok, but not enough Count… Read more

In the last 5 episodes we've laid out the most important strategies for students to be able to solve for all four operations. So what? In this episode Pam and Kim solve a gnarly problem to demonstrate how mathematizing can empower you and your students, and open up to the world of Real Math. Talking Points: How to use… Read more

Division is figure-out-able! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the four main strategies students need to develop to solve any division problem that's reasonable to solve without a calculator. Talking Points: Pam's personal harmful experience from the long division algorithm A precursor strategy: Partial Quotients… Read more

What are the five major strategies for multiplication? In this episode Pam and Kim name and give examples of each of the five major multiplication strategies. If students own these strategies they should be able to solve any multiplication problem that is reasonable to solve without a calculator. They will be able to… Read more

It's time for subtraction! In this episode Pam and Kim name and give examples of the four main subtraction strategies students need to own to solve any subtraction problem that is reasonable to solve without a calculator. Talking Points: Remove a Friendly Number Remove a Friendly Number - Over Remove to a Friendly… Read more

What are the major strategies students need to know to solve any addition problem that is reasonable to solve without a calculator? In this episode Pam and Kim list them out, give examples, and some insights into how they choose which strategy to use for any given problem. Talking Points: Splitting by Place Value (a… Read more

We want students to be real problem solvers, and we know that means much more than helping them get correct answers. But we never want to put students in a position where they are disadvantaged because they don't know the traditional algorithms. We actually want them to have a much deeper and richer understanding of… Read more

When we feel passionately about the way we teach, we can sometimes inadvertently miscommunicate when speaking with parents. In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss how to appropriately talk about getting correct answers and preparing for high stakes tests so that parents know their children are in good hands. Talking… Read more

Partnering with parents can be a blast! In this episode Pam and Kim describe how they organize and run math nights to help parents experience mathematizing and get excited about what their students will be learning. Talking Points: Typical parent math nights vs. our parent math nights Opportunity to share grade level… Read more

How can we proactively partner with and support parents? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss ways they over communicate to parents to keep parents involved and not confused. Talking Points: Newsletters: What is helpful information and tips for parents I can share? Parent-teacher conferences: What can I share with… Read more

Parents are so important, and sometimes they get concerned when their child isn't being taught math they way they were expecting. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss hearing parents' concerns and helping them feel heard and then helping them understand the math. We appreciate parents and we are better with them!… Read more

Kim has a story to tell that Pam hasn't heard yet! Listen in to get a feel of how math can be when students understand that Math is Figure-Out-Able. Talking Points: Pajama Math and exploring relationships in multiplying fractions Can you really just multiply straight across with fractions? Two ways to reason about 3/5… Read more

Most of us are probably teaching the way we were taught, to get correct answers to problems. But we aren't actually helping students understand and reason about the math. Which is more important? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss answer getting versus relationship building. Talking Points: Phil Daro's research on… Read more

Do your standards require you to teach algorithms? What then? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how they prepare their students for success on high stakes tests without ever teaching a step by step algorithm or process. Talking Points: All year long invest your time wisely helping kids learn to reason, increasing… Read more

What purpose has and should algorithms have in mathematics education? Are step by step What purpose has and should algorithms have in mathematics education? Are step by step procedures even to be taught at all? In this episode Pam and Kim talk about our role as teachers and what students need to think like… Read more

Aren't addition facts cool?! By this point you've learned some amazing relationships and strategies to help your students make real sense of and automatize the single digit addition facts. But sometimes learning and applying are two different things. In this episode Pam and Kim detail how to help your students get out… Read more

It's time for you to learn about the most important relationship your students need to know to automatize their addition facts: partners of ten. Partners of ten influence strategies for adding bigger numbers as well as strategies for other operations. In this episode Pam and Kim will discuss some of those influences… Read more

We build addition facts through relationships and fluency through experience. So what important patterns and relationships can help students master or reason with their single digit addition facts rather than rote memorize? How can we teach those patterns and what experiences can help students automatize and become… Read more

Addition is figure-out-able! In this episode Pam and Kim describe some of the fundamental patterns students should learn as they get familiar and automatize with their single -addition facts. We want students at all levels to have access to their facts so they don't bog down every time they encounter them. Talking… Read more

So many people get left behind when it comes to higher math, because they never learned mathematize or to think more sophisticatedly and build complex relationships and simultaneity in lower math. Teachers often share that their students lack numbers sense or fluency, specifically lack of memorized basic math facts.… Read more

We've come to the end of another year, and we'd thought we'd leave you with some suggestions on goals you can set for your teaching. In this episode Pam and Kim highlight some transformative goals that you probably haven't considered before. How could your math class look next year or next semester? Talking Points:… Read more

Don't you love the holidays? We sure do! It's such a great excuse to talk math with your family! In this episode Pam and Kim describe some ways (and activities they do) to involve math in their festivities, from formal games like I Have, You Need, Guess My Number, MathStratChat, to simply noticing and wondering.… Read more

As we approach Christmas and the holidays, we thought we'd talk about some of our favorite games that we love to gift others! In this episode Pam and Kim share what makes a great mathy game and list a few of their favorites that not only have numbers, but include some with strategy and logic. Also, don't forget to… Read more

We've got another one of our favorite routines for you today! In this episode Pam and Kim demonstrate the Relational Thinking routine, a routine that helps students understand equivalence and become more comfortable with relational strategies. Thanks to the Cognitively Guided Instruction group for introducing us to… Read more

There are a lot of great instructional routines out there, and today we want to highlight As Close as it Gets. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how to use this instructional routine in your classroom and how it can help your students get mathematizing with estimation! Talking Points: A routine to help students… Read more

Are your students dumb or smart? Fast or slow? Under achiever or advance achiever? Or are they just your students with varying experiences? In this episode, Pam and Kim discuss labels, and the effect they have on you as teachers and your students. They propose a different way to look at your students so that you can… Read more

How can we take what students already know and leverage that to make other mathematical connections? You've probably heard us mention that you should know your content and know your kids, but there's a lot of meaning behind that. In this episode Pam and Kim go in deep on how knowing your content and your kids support… Read more

We did it! We made it to episode 73! Why is that an important milestone? Just cause it's Kim's favorite number :-). In this episode Pam and Kim take the opportunity to highlight some important milestones in the Math is Figure-Out-Able movement. We're so grateful you're a part of it! Talking Points: Pam and Kim's… Read more

Facilitating a Problem String is tricky business, so Pam and Kim take the time in this episode to provide some do's and don'ts that anyone can learn from. Talking Points: What is a Problem String? How long should a Problem String last? Can Problem Strings be given in a worksheet or as a bell ringer? Does everyone… Read more

What makes Problem Strings different from other sequences of problems? In this episode Pam and Kim get into the nitty gritty on how Problem Strings work and what sets them apart. Talking Points: Defining Problem Strings The "Why or Purpose" - What sets a Problem String apart from just a list of problems? The "How" -… Read more

Problem Strings are meant to build off each other so that the math is always moving forward. That's why we've decided to build off the last episode with another Problem String! In this episode Pam and Kim find the equation of some lines using relationships and develop powerful strategies for more sophisticated… Read more

We've talked a lot about the types of reasoning we need to help students develop, but a lot of teachers believe that there comes a point in higher math where reasoning just won't cut it. In this episode Pam and Kim tackle functional reasoning, and demonstrate that algebra can be so much more than memorized steps.… Read more

In Episode 67 revisited the Development of Mathematical Reasoning (DMR) and we described how students can solve addition problems with Counting Strategies. What about the addition algorithm and multiplication and division problems? In this episode Pam and Kim explore the Development of Mathematical Reasoning even… Read more

It's been over a year since Pam and Kim first introduced the DMR (Development of Mathematical Reasoning) and in that time they've refined their ideas even further. In this episode Pam and Kim dive deeper into the development and why it's so important. Talking Points: It's not about answer getting, or students doing it… Read more

Math conferences are powerful ways to improve your teaching. But it's also really easy to go to a conference and accidently miss all the good sessions. In this episode Pam talks about a few powerful leaders in the math education community that she will always go see no matter what they're talking about. Talking… Read more

How can we best grow as teachers? Together of course! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss the power of teachers honing their craft through collaborative experiences and conversations. Administrators, leaders and coaches will find this episode particularly helpful. Talking Points: Shared experiences help to communicate… Read more

Fun with Division: An Important Strategy There is so much to division! Pam and Kim go through a quick Problem String that builds a less known, but super powerful, division strategy. Talking Points: Reasoning about division with scaling Thinking partitively vs quotitively to solve gnarly division problems with whole… Read more

Counting strategies can often go overlooked. Learning to count in a way that prepares students for Additive Reasoning is complex. But just how hard can counting be? Wait until you listen to this episode! Pam and Kim discuss how to help young learners increase in their sophistication as they count to add numbers.… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim show how three popular models - 100 charts, base ten blocks, and algebra tiles - while powerful for developing reasoning, can limit students' development of more sophisticated thinking as tools for computation. Talking Points: CRA vs tools for thinking What are 100 charts, base 10 blocks… Read more

Continuing their series on models and modeling, Pam and Kim discuss the advantages and pitfalls of Ten Frames. They emphasize the power of models that can become tools for thinking and reasoning. Ten Frames can be an excellent tool for helping kids see the structure of 5 and 10 when counting. But what happens when… Read more

Let's keep talking about modeling! A lot of you may be familiar with Number Bonds and Tape Diagrams and may be wondering about how they fit in with our modeling framework. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss these models and some of the confusion and misunderstanding surrounding them. They offer suggestions to help… Read more

Are manipulatives sometimes overemphasized? When are they useful, and when can they actually get in the way of the mathematics? What role do they play in our discussion about the modeling framework? Pam and Kim discuss these tricky questions, and discuss the power of contexts and developing models as tools for… Read more

It's time to talk about one of our foundational ideas for facilitating Real Math! In this episode Pam and Kim detail a modeling framework that helps students to learn to model their own thinking, and then to use models as tools for, or in order to think about, computation. The goal of the framework is for students to… Read more

If my experiences as a student are different than my child's experience at school, how can I help them succeed? In this episode for parents, we provide two clear ways you can support your child to be the best math student they can be. Be sure to listen to episodes 55 and 56 for the rest our series for parents. Talking… Read more

Hey parents! Thank you so much for listening to part two of our series for parents. It can be really frustrating to not understand what it is your kid is doing on their homework. What is up with all of the drawing? Where are the algorithms and simple steps? In this episode we'll explain the purpose and goal of why the… Read more

This episode is for all the parents out there who are invested in helping their children! It can be frustrating to see how math class looks different than it did when we were students. Why is it different anyways? Why would math class have to change? We are so grateful you're taking the time to ask. We'll do our best… Read more

We love answering your questions! In this episode Pam and Kim answer a question submitted from Rachel Adler. Pam shares her experiences familiarizing her students with data representations, and then Pam and Kim discuss their best advice for first year teachers. Talking Points: Jo Boaler's Data Talks:… Read more

We loved getting all of your questions! Because there's so many questions, Pam and Kim will have to spend the next couple episodes answering them. In this episode they discuss a question about the relevancy of money strategies, and whether strategies will change over time. Talking Points: Why experience with coins and… Read more

We are so grateful to be celebrating our one year anniversary of the podcast! It's been wonderful to hear all the feedback you've given us as you transform your classrooms. Here's to another year of mathematizing! Highlights: Ep 2: Pam's stance on algorithms Ep 9: Defining models and strategies Ep 34: Memorizing… Read more

We've had so much fun talking about fractions! In this episode Pam and Kim do another Problem String to demonstrate the effective use of a clock model. Talking Points: What denominators work well for a clock model? Example Problem String with non-unit fractions and mixed numbers Should we insist on the most simplified… Read more

How important is fractional equivalence? Important enough for another model! These models are fantastic for helping students develop a natural understanding of equivalent fractions. Listen in as Kim and Pam discuss how to use a clock model for denominators uncommon to the money model. Talking Points: Use adding and… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim finish up their money Problem String from the last episode. But first, Pam wanted to reflect a little on how she was less than helpful when Kim was struggling to think about nickels. We all learn and grow, and self-reflection is super important! Talking Points: Do you need time, or do you… Read more

It's time to talk about everyone's two favorite things: fractions and money! Fraction equivalence is a super important concept in mathematics, and it is best developed naturally in a familiar context. In this episode Pam and Kim model using coin denominations to reason about fractional equivalence. Talking Points: If… Read more

Let's keep talking fractions! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss an interesting rich task from Cathy Fosnot to help students reason about fractions within the context of sharing fairly. Listen in to learn about the outcomes teachers should look for when teaching fractional sense in a rich contextual problem. Talking… Read more

How young can young learners begin to experience fractions? Younger than you think! In this episode Pam and Kim describe simple ways we can help young students begin to develop fractional understanding. Pay attention to how natural it can be for young learners to learn math! Talking Points Struggles that young… Read more

Time to get into fractions! There is so much to learn about teaching fractions and in this episode we wanted to lay some important ground work. All too often we limit students by giving them experience with only one or two of the important ways fractions can be interpreted. When we help students fully understand… Read more

Though some people think Kim and Pam's voices are hard to tell apart, teaching Real Math has nothing to do with a particular style or even personality type. We believe in seeing the humanity in students and empowering them with mathematical confidence! Talking Points: Pam and Kim's results on the Enneagram Test. 2… Read more

If there's one thing that often comes up in teachers' conversations, it's standardized tests. And Pam and Kim are not afraid to tackle the tough conversations! In this episode Pam asks Kim about her experience with standardized tests, and how teaching Real Math helped Kim's students to succeed. Also don't forget to… Read more

In this final episode in our series on homework, Pam and Kim discuss what types of homework teachers should send out, as well as some important pitfalls to avoid. Talking Points: Pen and paper homework Games as homework and things to consider Computer activities as homework and things to consider Communication is… Read more

It's part two of our series on homework! Last time we heard Kim's perspective on when and what kinds of homework to give. Now it's Pam's turn. As a teacher for both high school and university classes, Pam gives an insightful look into when homework is necessary, and how we can always allow the humanity of our students… Read more

Welcome to our first off the cuff episode! Pam and Kim have no notes this time and are happy to tackle the topic of homework. Turns out, they have enough to say that this will be part one of a new series! Listen in as Kim makes a confession, and Pam rats out her kids. Talking points: Some general thoughts about… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim discuss why a traditional teaching approach is not effective and propose an alternate way of teaching to help every student learn and grow. It's one of their guiding principles, and they can't believe they're only just now sharing it! All students struggle at some point and all students… Read more

We made it to our final episode in our multiplication facts series! In this episode Pam and Kim share ideas about helping kids narrow in on facts they struggle with after many opportunities and experiences with multiplication. This final episode exemplifies why we believe that taking the long view and building… Read more

It's time for what you've all been waiting for. GAMES! Sure we don't want kids memorizing songs or rhymes to build their facts, but in this episode Pam and Kim bring the fun into multiplication. What games are out there that can help students build their facts and Multiplicative Reasoning at the same time? We're glad… Read more

Last episode Pam and Kim discussed how not to teach multiplication facts. So how should we teach them? This episode we look at multiplication facts through the lens of mathematizing using Problem Strings! Talking Points: The order that we teach math content matters to give students the best experience with… Read more

When choosing tasks to teach multiplication facts, what are the pitfalls to avoid? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss ways teachers may inadvertently 1) overemphasize speed, 2) introduce shame into their classrooms, and 3) focus on learning facts in isolation. We've all made mistakes, and this episode is about… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim begin the first of another series: Multiplication Facts! What role can mathematizing and Real Math play in helping kids master their multiplication facts? Listen in as Pam and Kim outline the differences between 'knowing' and 'rote memorizing' multiplication facts. Talking Points:… Read more

In the last two episodes, Pam and Kim did some really cool Problem Strings, but what do they think about Number Talks? Listen in as Pam explains how Number Talks and Problem Strings can go hand in hand for powerful results. Talking Points: Why call 'Number Talks' 'Problem Talks'? Short term goals for Problem Talks The… Read more

It's time for another Problem String! In this episode Pam and Kim highlight one of their favorite multiplication strategies. It's so slick! In doing so they continue the conversation about the importance of letting students discover and develop relationships, as opposed to teaching strategies step by step. Talking… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim want to help you develop a cool multiplication strategy. Which multiplication strategy? We aren't going to tell you until the end of the episode : -). We believe in developing strategies as natural outcomes, and then giving it a name. How do we do it? With Problem Strings! Listen in as Pam… Read more

Don't you just love taking a break to play with numbers? In this week's episode, Pam and Kim share some of the ways that they engage with kids of all ages outside of school to get them mathematizing. Parents, ever wondered what can you do for just ten minutes to help your kids build relationships? This episode is… Read more

In this episode Pam and Kim dive deep into their favorite model for multiplication, division, and solving proportions: ratio tables! They'll discuss 3 ways ratio tables can be a powerful tool to help students mathematize from 3rd grade to high school. Talking Points: What are ratio tables? How to, and not to, use… Read more

This week Pam and Kim wrap up their discussion on the Perspectives that Impact Math Pedagogy. Understanding the X, Y, and Z perspectives not only helps us understand one another better, but empowers us to choose to take on the Real Mathematics perspective. Listen in as Pam and Kim discuss the need for mathematics to… Read more

We've made it to our last (and maybe favorite) perspective that impacts pedagogy. The Y perspective describes those who struggle with fake math because they deeply desire to know "why". Pam and Kim describe people in their lives who grew up with the Y perspective and discuss their great value to the mathematics… Read more

This episode is all about the Z perspective. Listen in to hear about the perspective that This episode is all about the Z perspective. Listen in to hear about the perspective that Pam estimates influences the majority of math educators. It was Pam's perspective too! Pam and Kim parse out the characteristics of the Z… Read more

Continuing in the Perspectives Impacting Pedagogy Series, Pam and Kim discuss the X perspective. Did you play with numbers as a kid? Did math make natural sense to you, regardless of how your teacher taught it? You might relate to the X perspective. Listen in to learn how the X perspective influences teachers and… Read more

This episode is part one to a new five part series! Pam and Kim introduce the three main perspectives that influence the way we teach math. Understanding these perspectives helps teachers analyze their past perspective so they can make choices and have productive conversations regarding changing and improving math… Read more

How can we help students feel comfortable with using the commutative property? In this episode Pam and Kim go through some addition and multiplication problems to demonstrate how they think and reason using the the commutative property. Talking Points: The commutative property when a student is counting on to add The… Read more

Pam went most of her life not knowing about this really cool thing! Listen in as Kim relates a great math experience she had with her son, Luke, while they were messing around with addition. Pam and Kim discuss the importance and kinds of place value experiences we provide for students as we mentor them as… Read more

Are percents truly figure-out-able? You bet! Grab a pen and paper for this one as Pam and Kim discuss the 3 types of percent problems and how they solve them using relations, not with algorithms. Talking Points: What Journey members are emailing about The three types of percent problems Pam and Kim share their… Read more

So are percents really figure-out-able too? In this episode Pam and Kim do a Problem String and share their strategies to solve some percent problems. Listen in as they play with percents! Talking Points: Can we make math fun? Benchmarks that kids need to know around percents Percent Problem String

Pam and Kim explore what it means to be flexible with fractions, decimals, and percents. They discuss how we can become more flexible as we deal with rational numbers to help us be more judicious problem solvers. Talking Points: Why kids of today are more familiar with percentages Using benchmark fractions, decimals… Read more

You might want your magnifying glass for this one, because in this episode we're getting a little nitpicky. Pam and Kim discuss common and often traditional nomenclature/math-slang that can take the reasoning out of mathematics. They offer useful alternatives and illustrate the importance of using clear mathematical… Read more

Math is Figure-Out-Able, but surely there are some parts that are only memorizable, right? In this episode Pam and Kim parse out the difference between social knowledge and logical mathematical knowledge. They explain how knowing the difference can help determine how we teach the content. Talking Points: What is the… Read more

This week's episode is for all you parents and teachers of young children. Pam and Kim discuss ways to make counting Figure-Out-Able! How can we help kids make sense of our counting system and master the meaning behind the words we give to numbers? No matter what grade you teach, you're sure to learn something this… Read more