Math Block Series: Why Mistakes Matter (Using Errors to Guide Your Students' Math Growth)

The other day I noticed that nearly every student in one of my math groups missed many of the same problems and got a low score. I wanted help the figure out their misgivings about the problems and help them build a better understanding. 

On another day, I took the student worksheets and looked over several of their mistakes. I turned those mistakes into error analysis task cards for my students to work on during math rotations when they were not with me. They knew the errors were from their own math group, and were fully engaged.

This type of error analysis is not only beneficial, but it is necessary to facilitate a higher growth in students. Let's spend a few minutes together looking at how's and why's to making this a part of your own routine. 

1. "Mistakes Make Me Smarter!"

Help your students realize that mistakes are normal. Use simple language to explain these truths. 

• Mistakes are a part of learning. Anytime you are trying something for the first two times, the chances are pretty high that you will stink at it. Think about a child riding a bike. Are they an expert the first time? Do they suddenly know how to speed off down the driveway, doing wheelies? Of course not. And students should not expect the same thing when learning a new skill. Learning anything takes times. 
• Share an example of your own mistakes in math. Help students see that everyone makes mistakes from time to time and that they can use them to grow and improve.  
• Create your own mantra such as, "I made a mistake, but that's OK." and have students repeat it when they make a mistake of their own. 

2. "Oops! Let’s Fix That Together"

• Go through a simple math problem with a common error (like forgetting to regroup or mixing up multiplication facts).
• Show students how to find a mistake and fix it by tracing their steps over one at a time until they are comfortable doing that on their own.
• Give students a problem that is done incorrectly. Have them look for and discuss what the error was. 

 3. "My Math Detective Notebook"

• Consider having students keep a notebook of error analysis. 
• Include prompts like: “What was my mistake?”, “Why did I make it?”, “What will I do next time?”
• Make the notebook fun with doodles, stickers, or superhero themes.

4. "Top 5 Sneaky Math Mistakes—and How to Catch Them!"

• List common errors like forgetting place value, rushing through word problems, or misreading signs.
• Use fun examples and tips to help students remember to slow down and double-check their own work.

 5. "From Mistake to Masterpiece: My Math Glow-Up"

• Share your own story or a student example of someone who struggled with a math concept but improved through error analysis.
• Celebrate progress and growth, not just getting the “right” answer. Show students the steps they did do correctly.

I hope I have convinced you of the importance of analyzing your errors and hopefully you will try these techniques in your own classroom.