Computation errors that may occur by expanded use of calculators are discussed. Potential errors with five exact arithmetic examples are described as they are translated into approximate processes. (MNS)

Algebra word problems were analyzed in terms of the information integration tasks that are required to solve the problems. These tasks were classified into three levels: value assignment, value derivation, and equation construction. Novices (35 first year algebra students) and experts (13 analytic geometry students) were compared on the proportion…

Several examples of mathematical diagnosis using microcomputer software are presented, with possible future considerations suggested. Three limitations of the software are discussed. (MNS)

The performance of 60 fourth form pupils who had been taught to solve algebraic equations by the algorithmic or flow chart method was studied. A sizeable number of pupils were not using the flow chart method. Other types of errors are noted. (MNS)

On the Australian Mathematics Competition, boys responded correctly to more questions than did girls, but this difference came largely from a handful of questions. Responses to questions where sex differences occurred are discussed. (MNS)

Discussed are the mathematical methods for detecting a variety of common error patterns within the bar-coded identification numbers utilized in conjunction with scanning devices. Schemes for the use of check digits are examined that ensure conditions for detecting errors of specific types, including single digit error, transposition error, twin…

An approach to teaching factors and terms is offered that builds directly on students' knowledge of arithmetic. Errors arising from factor and term confusions are noted, followed by the pedagogical strategy of exploration, invention, and discovery. (MNS)

Structuring the algebra course to provide a link between a student's existing knowledge and the new topic being presented is discussed. Developing relationships among topics is suggested through examples describing a mathematical problem and effective teaching approaches. Stress is placed on teachers reflecting on mistakes pupils are likely to…

A lesson in editing was learned from a study of errors made on a national mathematics test in Israel. Analysis indicated that the errors were often caused by careless printing of the test, misleading figures, poor designations, or ambiguous phrasing. (MNS)

Three theorems for Pythagorean triples are presented, with discussion of how students can amend their ideas about such numbers. (MNS)

Results from a British study on Strategies and Errors in Secondary Mathematics are considered. Students' views of algebra and their difficulties are summarized, with some suggestions for teachers. (MNS)

Attention is called to the apparent widespread misunderstanding of algebraic notation by secondary school students, and how this may arise from some common approaches to teaching algebra to beginners is discussed. (MNS)

Difficulties experienced by algebra students are listed, with comments on what can be done and some implications for teaching. (MNS)

Why students have difficulty with a proof (such as Cantor's) is discussed, with the focus on proof by contradiction. Methods may fail due to the difficulty of the concept and lack of understanding of how students are thinking. (MNS)

The purpose of this study is to contribute to an understanding of how errors could be employed in mathematics instruction so that the students use them constructively in support of their learning of mathematics. A teaching experiment was designed to create an ideal context in which the pedagogical approach to errors as springboards could be…