EDUC 431F -- SECONDARY MATH METHODS
On-Line, Tuesdays
Instructor: Beth Wentworth, PhD
Office Hours: MW 2 – 3
Office: Science 214
TRF 10 – 11
or by appointment
Office Phone: 432-6406
Email: bwentworth@csc.edu
Course Title: Special Methods/Math
Credit Hours: 1 undergraduate credit hours
Catalog Description: This course is a methods course in the mathematics field of
specialization and is required of secondary education majors.
Texts: Teaching Secondary School Mathematics, Eighth Edition, by Posamentier, Smith, and
Stepelman
Principles and Standards for School Mathematics, by NCTM.
Student Learning Outcomes: The specific outcomes for the student are:
1.
Recall and describe different techniques such as cooperative learning, writing, and
sensitivity.
2.
Formulate lessons and develop strategies in order to enhance student learning in
mathematics. These strategies include enrichment techniques, questioning, problem
solving, homework, classroom management, and motivational techniques. (Rule 24
B 8)
3.
Create appropriate means of assessment and grading strategies of the students in
the classroom. (Rule 24 A)
4.
Develop professionalism in teaching and evaluation in the field of mathematics.
(Rule 24 A)
5.
Apply technology in their mathematical instruction. (Rule 24 B7)
6.
Analyze of the teaching and assessment standards of the Principles and Standards
for School Mathematics document from the National Council of Teachers of
Mathematics as well as the Mathematics Standards for the State of Nebraska. (Rule
24 A)
These Student Learning Outcomes satisfy the requirements A, B7, and B8 of Rule 24, HS
endorsement.
Professional Development: The Nebraska Association of Teachers of Mathematics (NATM)
coordinates a pre-service conference for mathematics education students. This conference will
be in the spring, in Lincoln. We will be teaching a high school and middle school math lesson.
Dates and places for these lessons will be announced later. A lesson plan will be prepared and
turned in to myself and the school teacher a week before the scheduled date for teaching.
Topics: Topics for this course include:
1.
Mathematical pedagogy
2.
Instruction, evaluation, and assessment of mathematics
3.
Lesson construction and production
4.
Technology in mathematics
5.
Alternative assessments
6.
Mathematics Standards, both state and national (Rule 24 B8)
Method of Instruction: Throughout this course, a variety of methods of instruction will be used.
On-line instruction will be used along with extensive group work and
instructional technology. Student-led discussions in the form of on-line
chats and utilization of the discussion board forums are essential in the
instruction of this course.
Course Requirements:
Assignments:
Cooperative Lesson Plan – topic is the sum of the measure of the angles of a triangle.
Lesson Plan which includes at least one other academic area. Due: Dec. 5
Unit which includes 4 lesson plans. Due: Dec. 9
Philosophy paper. Due: Dec. 12
Each student will be responsible for teaching four (4) lessons of approximately 20 minutes in
length. Involved in the lesson will be a complete lesson plan: a lesson description, performance
objectives, pre-assessment, teaching strategies, and post-assessment. Detailed lesson plans (p.
10), and a detailed script of the lesson is to be included.
Tests: We will have one test worth 100 points. The test will assess pedagogy, techniques,
technology, and assessment.
Journals: Journals will be a weekly requirement of the course. Journal topics will be given at the
beginning of each week. Each journal will be worth 5 points. Submit in Sakai under Forums.
This course requires that you actively engage in the interpretation and development of
your mathematical teaching techniques. Class discussions will be an integral part of this
process. Please come to class prepared to offer your thoughts and comments regarding
this profession.
Attendance Policy: The College assumes that students will seek to profit from the instructional
program and will recognize the importance of attending every class meeting of courses for which
credit is expected. Responsibility for notifying faculty of absences, and for arranging potential
make-up, rests with the students.
Attendance is expected and will be taken at each class meeting. It is your responsibility to come
to class prepared as it is my responsibility to come to class prepared with the new information.
Therefore, it is imperative that your attendance and class input is needed.
Grading Procedures:
The grading scale is as follows:
94% - 100% = A
86% - 93% = B
75% - 85% = C
65% - 74% = D
Below 64% = F
There will be three exams, each worth 100 points.
Homework, group work, and class participation will constitute a total of 100 points.
Each lesson will constitute 25 points for a total of 100 points.
Each journal will constitute 5 points for a total of 75 points.
Total points: Cooperative Lesson Plan
= 30 points
Lesson Plan
= 30 points
Exam
= 100 points
Journals (12 @ 5 pts. each) = 60 points
Unit with 4 Lesson Plans
= 150 points
Philosophy
= 100 points
----------------------------------------------------------Total = 470 points
Disclaimer: Information contained in this syllabus was, to the best knowledge of the instructor,
considered correct and complete when distributed for use at the beginning of the semester.
However, this syllabus should not be considered a contract between Chadron State College and
any student. The instructor reserves the right, acting within the policies and procedures of
Chadron State College, to make changes in course content or instructional techniques without
notice or obligation.