Several schemes use modular arithmetic to append a check digit to product identification numbers for error detection. Some schemes are discussed, including ones for money orders and library books. Then a foolproof method is presented. (MNS)

Discusses two intriguing ways of explaining error in student writing--the work of Michel Foucault and the work of Roland Barthes. Describes in-class activities and essay assignments that use these perspectives to help students to reach improved understanding of error in writing. (SR)

Using Logo to work through a maze is described. Suggested programs to help students learn to debug programs are also included, along with the story of the original "computer bug." (MNS)

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)

A study of error patterns in Polish students' use of the French article provides the basis for an instructional approach that focuses on developing students' linguistic awareness rather than teaching rules of usage. (MSE)

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

Provides suggestions for helping student writers deal with predication. (FL)

A distinction is made between estimation and checking, and an analysis of standard errors made on calculators when pupils are checking answers is given. (MP)

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…

Experiment designed to test efficacy of techniques of comprehensive error correction on combined grammatical and orthographic correctness of compositions written by intermediate-level college students studying German found writing skill development favorably affected by appropriate techniques. They are: systematic scoring of compositions;…

Discusses two types of student writing problems: error characteristics (spelling, pronoun usage, subject-verb agreement, run-on sentences, and capitalization) and nonerror characteristics (density of ideas, variety of referents, and variety of expression). Suggests ways to diagnose and correct them. (HTH)

Proposes an error gravity/distribution factor to give a mathematically consistent evaluation method to error analysis. Such an approach assumes that "seriousness" of error is related to frequency of output and not to notions of degree of communicative difficulty. Distribution of error type is also taken into account. (PJM)

Why a computer error occurred is considered by analyzing the binary system and decimal fractions. How the computer stores numbers is then described. Knowledge of the mathematics behind computer operation is important if one wishes to understand and have confidence in the results of computer calculations. (MNS)

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)

Errant mathematical views are widely found among teachers, their students, and authors of applied mathematics texts. Suggests classroom experimentation, both to confirm the occurrence of these errors, and to apply the appropriate corrective teaching. (Author/ASK)