We take advantage of a combinatorial misconception and the famous paradox of the Chevalier de Méré to present the multiplication rule for independent events; the principle of inclusion and exclusion in the presence of disjoint events; the median of a discrete-type random variable, and a confidence interval for a large sample. Moreover, we pay…

This paper presents an analysis of fractions errors displayed by learners due to deficient mastery of prerequisite concepts. Fractions continue to pose a critical challenge for learners. Fractions can be a tricky concept for learners although they often use the concept of sharing in their daily lives. 30 purposefully sampled learners participated…

The probability is exceptional in the teaching of mathematics because students often have difficulties to understand the basic terms and the problem solving strategies. Understanding lacks of the probability concept and various types of misconceptions arise from the misleading intuition and misinterpretations of experience with the stochastic…

We examined the type of errors on multiplication and division computation problems of 326 rising fifth graders enrolled in four elementary schools in Northern Portugal. We further examined whether there was a difference in the number of errors across age and whether there was an association between students' performance on number knowledge and…

The purpose of this study was to better understand how students with learning disabilities, including those who struggle specifically with mathematics, engage with fraction computation. In particular, we examined error patterns, the influence of like and unlike denominators on these patterns, and correct solution methods. Although skill-related…

Studied were the misconceptions that preservice elementary teachers have about multiplication and division. Results indicated that they are influenced by the same primitive models as students; the most common errors made by both groups are quite similar. (MNS)

Uses of calculators to teach the concept of exponents are described. Topics covered on activity sheets include powers of two, number systems, and powers as repeated multiplication. Cooperative learning is emphasized. (KR)