EDSC 353 - Teaching Secondary Geometry
University of Nevada, Reno
College of Education
Instructor:
Dr. Robert J. Quinn
Instructional website:
http://bobquinn.edublogs.org/
Office:
William Raggio Building 3112
Office phone:
682-7526
eMail address:
quinn@unr.edu
Office hours:
Thursday - 11:50 AM to 3:50 PM or by arrangement
Teaching assistant:
Kazi Shahidullah
Class schedule:
Thursday 7:00 to 9:45 PM
Required text:
Discovering Geometry: An Investigative Approach, Fourth
Edition by Michael Serra
Catalog description:
(3+0) 3 credits. Pedagogical techniques embedded within
the mathematical content of high school geometry.
Conceptual Framework
The purpose of this course is to prepare secondary mathematics education majors for the
teaching of Euclidean geometry. This purpose will be achieved by addressing each of the
major goals of the College of Education: (a) to possess a love of learning; (b) to develop a
strong fund of knowledge; (c) to engage in reflective practice; and (d) to value democracy
and diversity.
Course Objectives
The specific goals listed below will ensure preparation for teaching that is consistent with
the College of Education's Knowledge Base.
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Solve problems appropriate to a Euclidean Geometry class using multiple
strategies.
Explain concepts appropriate to a Euclidean Geometry class in a manner that
would be understandable to students.
Rigorously prove theorems typically included in Euclidean Geometry.
Explain the nature of proof and consider its role in a Euclidean geometry class.
Model appropriate geometric situations using Geometer’s Sketchpad.
EDSC 353 Syllabus-page 1
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Provide inductive evidence of various geometric situations using Geometer’s
Sketchpad.
Describe means by which various topics in Euclidean Geometry can be taught
using Geometer’s Sketchpad.
Explain the role of technology in the teaching of Euclidean Geometry.
Use construction tools to perform appropriate geometric constructions.
Explain the role of constructions in the teaching of Euclidean Geometry.
Describe the different experiences that must occur to facilitate the learning of
Euclidean Geometry.
Explain instructional strategies appropriate for teaching Euclidean Geometry.
Communicate geometric concepts effectively, both orally and in writing.
Define and discuss the teacher's role in the geometry classroom, including
responsibility to the diversity of students and their various learning styles.
Performance Assessment Requirements
1.
Class participation. Attendance is mandatory. Participants should demonstrate
active participation during class. Much of what is learned in this class should
come from class activities and discussions. Notes or class readings do not always
convey the same learning that is developed in class. Therefore, missing class
means missing a large portion of this learning development. Each unexcused
absence will result in a 6-point deduction from your point total. Make-up work
for unexcused absences will not be given. Excused absences will result in a
deduction of 3 points each if make-up work for that class is not completed. There
will be no deduction for the first two excused absences if make-up work is
completed. After the second excused absence a 3-point deduction will be made
for any additional excused absences. It is your responsibility to inform the
instructor BEFORE an excused absence and to arrange for make-up work.
Domain 5.
2.
Content Quizzes. Throughout the semester, 8 quizzes will be given (denoted by
an “*” on the schedule). Domain 2.
3.
Reflections on Readings. Throughout the semester, two reflections of reading
assignments will be made. Domains 1, 2, & 3.
4.
Geometer's Sketchpad Assignment. This assignment will include a thorough
critique of Geometer's Sketchpad and a discussion of how you would use
Geometer’s Sketchpad to teach a particular topic. Domains 1, 2, & 3.
EDSC 353 Syllabus-page 2
5.
Final Examination. This exam will involve both creating and solving problems.
All material covered throughout the course will be included. Domains 2, 4, & 5.
Point Distribution
Eight Quizzes
Reading Reflections
Geometer’s Sketchpad Assignment
Final Examination
Unexcused absences
Excused absences (no make-up work)
Excused absences (3rd or more)
80
20
10
70
-6 (each)
-3 (each)
-3 (each)
Total points
180
Grading Scale
A
B
C
D
167 to 180
149 to 154
131 to 136
113 to 118
ABCD-
161 to 166
143 to 148
125 to 130
107 to 112
B+
C+
D+
F
155 to 160
137 to 142
119 to 124
< 112
Note 1: Your student fees cover usage of the Math Center, Tutoring Center, and
University Writing Center. These centers support your classroom learning; it is your
responsibility to take advantage of their services. Keep in mind that seeking help outside
of class is the sign of a responsible and successful student.
Note 2: Any student who qualifies with a disability should provide the instructor with a
letter from the Disability Resource Center (DRC) stating the appropriate accommodations
for this course. If you have a documented disability and wish to discuss how these
academic accommodations will be implemented for this course, please contact the
instructor as soon as possible.
Note 3: The University of Nevada, Reno holds high expectations with regard to
academic honesty. Any violation of university policy will result in serious consequences
that may lead to a failing grade in this class or, in extreme cases, dismissal from the
program. Please consult the University of Nevada, Reno Statement on Academic
Honesty.
Note 4: This document represents the instructor’s best attempt to delineate the
assignments of the course. The contents of these pages are subject to change as the
course unfolds. The instructor will inform students of any changes that are deemed
necessary as soon as possible.
EDSC 353 Syllabus-page 3
Tentative Course Calendar (Thursdays)
8/30
Introductions
Geometer’s Sketchpad
Chapter 0 - Geometric Art
Chapter 1 - Introducing Geometry
9/6
Chapter 2 - Reasoning in Geometry
9/13
*Chapter 3 - Using Tools of Geometry
9/20
*Chapter 4 - Discovering and Proving Triangle Properties
9/27
*Chapter 5 - Discovering and Proving Polygon Properties
10/4
Chapter 6 - Discovering and Proving Circle Properties
10/11
*Chapter 7 - Transformations and Tessellations
10/18
*Chapter 8 - Area
10/25
Chapter 9 - The PythagoreanTheorem
11/1
*Chapter 10 - Volume
11/8
Chapter 11 - Similarity
11/15
*Chapter 12 - Trigonometry
11/22
Thanksgiving Holiday - No Class
11/29
*Chapter 13 - Geometry as a Mathematical System
12/6
Review for Final Examination
12/13
Final Examination
EDSC 353 Syllabus-page 4