Kamelia Koleva
Land Forces Faculty
National Military University „Vassil Levski”
Abstract. Mathematical fallacies are such statements in the chains of arguments
that cause subtle mistakes. Using them in the process of teaching Mathematics can
contribute to increasing students’ interest in learning the material as well as helping
them acquire a firm and lasting knowledge in mathematical concepts and theorems.
In brief, the connections between sophisms, paradoxes and paralogisms, as well as
the differences between the terms „sophism” and „fallacy“, are explained. The socalled
mathematical howlers and examples of them are presented in connection with
the subject in consideration. This paper includes examples of the use of fallacies in
the Algebraic curriculum in schools, in line with the current mathematics programs.
Keywords: sophism; fallacy; mathematics; algebra; teaching; paradox; howler
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