Math Misconceptions and Considerations HSG-GMD.A.1
Look closely at errors in students’ work (formative assessment) to help you reflect and make instructional decisions to suit all students’ needs.
Pi is a variable, just like x. It is very important that students see that pi is a constant rather than a variable. Its value does not change regardless of the size of the circle or units of measure, and pi always represents the same number. Student often think of pi as a variable similar to x and y, rather than a constant value like √ 5 . Misconception:
What to do: The strategy depicted above is often used in classrooms, as it builds on their understanding of combining like-terms, and extends it to pi. However, students must realize that unlike variables pi has a specific constant value. My students only need to know how to apply the formula. Students have been using and applying the formulas for circumference, area, and volume for a number of years, beginning in middle school. This standard provides an opportunity to reinforce many concepts addressed previously in a more complex manner. Misconception: In the past, we’ve only required our students to answer problems similar to the one shown below.
What to do: The problem below allows students to move beyond computation to an understanding and application level.