Rino Dharmawan Fikri, Fildza Claudia Saputri, Larasati Bias Sekar Setyowati Sumitro, Sisworo
This research aims to identify the errors made by seventh-grade students in solving mathematics problems related to the volume and surface area of geometric shapes using the Newman method. The research instruments included test questions and interview questionnaires. The test consisted of four questions related to the volume and surface area of geometric shapes, which were evaluated for discriminating power, reliability, difficulty level, and validity. Four students were also selected as interview samples. Based on Newman’s criteria, several indicators of student errors in solving mathematics problems were identified: a) reading errors; b) comprehension errors; c) transformation errors; d) process skill errors, including calculation mistakes that result in incorrect answers; and e) answer writing errors, where students struggle to convert final results into contextual mathematical sentences. Transformation errors and answer writing errors were the most common. This indicates that students are not sufficiently careful and skilled in interpreting problem information. To address student misconceptions, teachers should provide various suitable learning activities, including using learning media, assisting students in independent learning, and applying teaching models that match the students’ learning types. © 2025 American Institute of Physics Inc.. All rights reserved.
Department of Mathematics, Universitas Negeri, Malang Jl. Semarang 5, Jawa Timur, Malang, 65145, Indonesia
