MATH& 131 Math for Elementary Education 1 (5 credits)
Distribution Area Fulfilled Natural Sciences; Quantitative and Symbolic Reasoning; General Transfer Elective
Formerly MATH& 171
Prerequisite Completion of GSP
Course Description
The first of two courses for prospective elementary teachers focusing on the mathematics underlying modern elementary school math. Topics include: number systems, models for operations, problem-solving techniques, and a variety of instructional approaches. Emphasizes deep conceptual understanding of content, connections among topics, and communication of mathematical ideas. Appropriate technology is incorporated.
Course Content
A. Problem solving strategies (including models, pattern recognition, tables of data, guess and check)
B. Methods of inductive and deductive reasoning (including Venn Diagrams)
C. Structure, properties and operations of the real number system
E. Cognitive models and concrete materials for exploring quantitative relationships.
F. Algebraic expressions, equations and functions.
G. Communication of mathematical ideas and reasoning.
H. Historical and cross-cultural aspects of mathematics.
I. Interconnections among math ideas and connections with other disciplines.
J. State and national curriculum standards for math in elementary schools
K. Appropriate technology and technological activities.
Student Outcomes
Problem solving and Reasoning
1. Apply problem-solving strategies and/or mathematical reasoning to interpret and solve math problems, illustrate and justify quantitative relationships and computational methods and evaluate the reasonableness and accuracy of potential solutions to problems.
Structure & Operations with Real Numbers
2. Explain and use the mathematical structure and properties of the set of real numbers and arithmetic operations to solve problems involving whole numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, percents, and proportions.
Algebraic Expressions, Equations & Functions
3. Use symbolic algebra to represent and solve applied problems and investigate how the variables interact and are represented graphically.
Communication of Mathematical Ideas and Reasoning
4. Clearly communicate mathematical thinking, strategies and solutions both orally and in writing using proper mathematical notation and vocabulary, and evaluate that of others during independent and collaborative activities.
Connections and Context
5. Demonstrate knowledge of historical and cross-cultural contributions to mathematics and to the development of number systems.
6. Analyze and explain how mathematical ideas connect to one another and to real-life topics.
Instructional Methodology
7. Discuss and apply relevant national and state mathematical standards and appropriate instructional methods observed in K-8 classrooms.
8. Use appropriate technology and concrete materials (manipulatives) for problem solving, demonstrating concepts, and exploration.
9. Investigate and explain the effects of math anxiety on learners and the learning environment in an elementary classroom and discuss strategies to address anxiety/avoidance in oneself and others.
Degree Outcomes
Quantitative & Symbolic Reasoning: Graduates utilize mathematical, symbolic, logical, graphical, geometric, or statistical analysis for the interpretation and solution of problems in the natural world and human society.
Critical, Creative and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.
Effective Communication: Graduates will be able to exchange messages in a variety of contexts using multiple methods.
Lecture Contact Hours 50
Lab Contact Hours 0
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 50
Potential Methods
A. TEST – multiple choice, true/false, computational, matching, or short written answers.
B. WRITING ASSIGNMENT – journal, outline, narrative explanation, solution to math problem, essay, notebook, portfolio, report on observation, or projects.
C. GROUP WORK – group written solution to problems or assignment, activities with concrete materials, group presentation, or group discussion.
D. INDIVIDUAL WORK – individual presentation, individual written solution to problems, or individual oral solution to problems. Demonstrate proficiency with technology.
E. INFORMAL ASSESSMENT – self-evaluation by student, peer evaluation, or teacher observation
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