Course Number and Title: MED 602 Special Topics Teaching Mathematics in the Middle School

Instructor Information:

Dr. Tom M. Giambrone

Office: BI 331

Phone: 878 5717

Email: giambrtm@math.buffalostate.edu

Web Site: http://math.buffalostate.edu/~giambrtm/

Hours: 5-6 M-TH.

Course Description:

This course will present you with knowledge of the mathematical development of a learner from elementary through high school. Given the conceptual development of the learner you will know which concepts children have when coming to you and what they should learn in the middle school and how these concepts lay the foundation for high school mathematics. Research based pedagogy will be experienced in the course. Mathematical topics of Mathematical Reasoning, Uncertainty, Modeling, Measurement, Number and Numeration and Patterns and Functions will be examined.

Relationship to the Conceptual Model:

Critical Knowledge/Skill Areas:

Diversity: This course is committed to the concept that all children can learn and due to diversity learn in different ways.

Technology: We will use graphing calculators (TI 83), geometer’s Sketchpad and other appropriate software in this course.

Dealing with Exceptional Learners:

Techniques for Diagnosis ad Remediation will be examined as well as models for assessing and developing children’s mathematical understanding in a variety of ways.

Student Outcomes:

You will review and develop curriculum materials that demonstrate you design environments for students to :

· understand and apply the concepts of statistics and probability, including exploratory data analysis;

· use algebra to describe patterns, relations and functions and to model and solve problems;

· understand the role of axiomatic systems in different branches of mathematics, such as algebra and geometry; use problem solving techniques in solving problems;

· use calculators in computational and problem-solving situations;

· use computer software to explore and solve mathematical problems.

· use the historical development in mathematics that includes the contributions of underrepresented groups and diverse cultures.

· use calculators, computers and other technologies as tools for teaching mathematics.

· use a variety of manipulative and visual materials for exploration and development of mathematical concepts in grades 5—8.

Course Requirements/Grading Policy:

Evaluation:

Assignments 50%

Class Participation 20%

Classroom Tests 20%

Final Project 10%

Assignments: Grading of the assignments will be based upon their completion and accuracy. You must hand in your assignments on the day next class following the assignment. One letter grade will be deducted for each day the assignment is late.

Attendance is mandatory. Your final grade will be multiplied by (N-A)/(N-1) where A is the number of classes you are absent and N is the number of class meetings. Tardiness will be assign .5 of an absence.

Required/Recommended Texts, Reading, Material:

Materials will be provided. You will be expected to buy assorted materials for model construction. TI 83/4 is required. Loaners are available on a limited basis. Get new cartridges for you printers. You will need them.

Behavior:

"All students are expected to comport themselves in a manner that does not convey to others in the college community any disrespect, intolerance, or rude behavior based on age, race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or marital,
veteran, or socioeconomic status. All members of the college community are expected to contribute to the college environment to move the college community in the direction of respect for all".

"The instructor may have removed from the classroom anyone who, in the instructor's opinion, is disrupting the educational process, and pursue formal changes against the student under the college judicial system, pursuant to Buffalo State College's Procedure Regarding Disruptive Individuals."

Use of Cell Phones:

Only leave your cell phone on if you are facing an emergency situation. Please inform me in advance.

Academic Honesty Policy:

You are expected to complete assignments on your own. No collusion is permitted on homework, projects, and tests. The penalty for collusion is a zero for that assignment or project. If you are unable to take a test a notice of 2 hours must be given. Documentation is required.