Common Errors in Multiplication
Mathematics teachers have to be careful to analyze written work in arithmetic so that error patterns in childrens' work does not go unnoticed. Errors as a result of carelessness or wrong recall of number facts may not affect all questions. Of greater consequence are the errors caused by applying a defective algorithm.
A child who has misunderstood an algorithm or invented a defective algorithm, tends to show it in all his working. Such methods may go undetected especially when they yield correct answers to some questions.
Given below are the written responses of some children to multiplication questions. Study the various examples and try to develop an understanding of the common error patterns seen among children.
Kim
Explain the error in Kim's method.
Did Kim get any question correct using this method?
Complete the following questions the way Kim would.
What might a teacher do to help Kim?
Click here to see Kim's response.
Jane
Explain the error in Jane's method.
Did Jane get any question correct using this method?
Complete the following questions the way Jane would.
What might a teacher do to help Jane?
Click here to see Jane's response.
Jolly
Explain the error in Jolly's method.
Did Jolly get any question correct using this method?
Complete the following questions the way Jolly would.
What might a teacher do to help Jolly?
Click here to see Jolly's response.
Sid
Explain the error in Sid's method.
Did Sid get any question correct using this method?
Complete the following questions the way Sid would.
What might a teacher do to help Sid?
Click here to see Sid's response.
Tom
Explain the error in Tom's method.
Did Tom get any question correct using this method?
Complete the following questions the way Tom would.
What might a teacher do to help Tom?
Click here to see Tom's response.