Creator: Russell Blyth, Saint Louis University | visit site
Grade Range: 6 - 11
Use Math mistakes to uncover the most common math errors and perhaps learn a little more math as well. This site has "Real Mistakes from Real Student Work" and "Math Facts Students Should Know." Browse "Common Algebra Mistakes," "Common Trigonometry Mistakes," and "Common Calculus Mistakes" by using the drop down menus along the top or through the brightly colored buttons. Each area is also broken down into smaller subject areas such as "Pre-algebra" and "Radical Expressions" with several examples given for each. Each example provides the problem and the example mistake that is made. Rolling your mouse over the problem provides a clue to the error, while rolling over the correction area provides the right answer. There are also explanations of the errors and how to avoid them. Choosing the drop down on the example page allows the student to view as a plain web page or as a pdf file. Other links include "Algebra facts," "Trigonometry facts," and "Calculus facts" which contain flash cards and learning center activities. Note: Links to Amazon for math books of interest are listed, as well as a blog link and links to apparel for sale. Steer students clear of these areas. This site requires Adobe Acrobat. You can get it from the <a href="/tools.cfm ">TeachersFirst Toolbox page.</a>.
In the Classroom
Use the flashcards and learning center information to reinforce material taught in class. Students can also look at the examples to make a class hint list of "how to avoid mistakes in our math class." Students can use this information to review incorrect homework and test questions. Have students take turns presenting the most commonly missed questions and how to find the correct answers. Have students correct their own mistakes from a test or homework assignment by using the site. Have students analyze the mistakes first before they roll over to view the hints and the corrections. If you use an interactive whiteboard, the rollovers will not appear as easily, so you can ask students to find them first.
At Home
Help your student check his/her homework by using this site. The most common mistakes or pitfalls can be avoided by looking at each of the examples. Refresh your own math skills by reviewing these most common mistakes.