Persistent and pernicious errors in algebraic problem solving

Abstract

Students hold many misconceptions as they transition from arithmetic to algebraic thinking, and these misconceptions can hinder their performance and learning in the subject. To identify the errors in Algebra I which are most persistent and pernicious in terms of predicting student difficulty on standardized test items, the present study assessed algebraic misconceptions using an in-depth error analysis on algebra students’ problem solving efforts at different points in the school year. Results indicate that different types of errors become more prominent with different content at different points in the year, and that there are certain types of errors that, when made during different levels of content, are indicative of math achievement difficulties. Recommendations for the necessity and timing of intervention on particular errors are discussed.