Why Does Error Analysis and Discourse Matter?

Communicating to students that mistakes are a valuable aspect of learning mathematics and providing opportunities for students to discuss misconceptions with their peers, emphasizes a deeper conceptual understanding of the content in the classroom. Often times, students are hesitant to begin mathematics problems due to the fear of making mistakes. As teachers, we are able to mold the mindsets of our students so that they perceive errors as a learning opportunity rather than just arriving at an incorrect answer.

In this unit, there are two related lessons. By the conclusion of lesson 2, you should be able to summarize why error analysis is important in mathematics classrooms, the benefits of student-led discourse within lessons and define the role of teachers during mathematical discourse.

Lesson 1: The Power of Mistakes

Objective: Participants will be able to summarize the importance of error analysis in mathematics classrooms.

Directions: Read the following article from The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, "The Power of a Good Mistake" and watch the video, "Growth Mindset for Math" below then answer the reflection questions below.

Article: The Power of a Good Mistake

Video: Growth Mindset for Math

Reflection Questions:

Use the Discussion Tab at the top of the page to answer the following questions and share your thoughts with other participants in this course.

1. Summarize how discussing errors or mistakes in mathematics classrooms develop a student's conceptual understanding.

2. Discuss the impact error analysis on classroom learning environments.

Lesson 2: Understanding Student-Led Discourse

Objective: Participants will be able to summarize the importance of student-led discussions in mathematics classrooms and define the role of teachers during classroom discourse.

Directions: Read the following article from The National Council of Mathematics Teachers, "The Power of Incorrect Answers", focusing specifically on the "Math Talk Framework", then read Ready's rationale for why mathematical discourse matters. To conclude, answer the reflection questions below.

Article 1: The Power of Incorrect Answers

Article 2: Why Mathematical Discourse Matters

Reflection Questions:

Use the Discussion Tab at the top of the page to answer the following questions and share your thoughts with other participants in this course.

1. Summarize how student-led discourse deepens mathematical understanding for all classroom members.

2. Define the role of teachers during mathematical discourse.

Next Steps

Done? Continue to Unit 2: Planning for Misconceptions to access your next lessons!