Syllabus for Foundations of Elementary Mathematics II
TR 8:00-9:15 AM – Spring 2008
Rohr Science 220 – (619) 849-2604 –
gcrow@pointloma.edu 
Course Description
MTH 223 (3) Foundations of Elementary Mathematics II
A continuation of Mathematics 213 focusing on additional knowledge necessary
for a California multiple-subject teaching credential (K-8). Topics covered in
this course include data analysis and statistics, probability, combinations and
permutations, simulations as well as standard and non-standard measurement.
Planar and three dimensional geometry and geometric constructions are studied,
including an algebraic approach to geometry. This class is highly interactive
and emphasizes group work and cooperative learning.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 213.
Required
Materials
- Calculator: A cheap calculator (with at
least a square root key and memory).
- Straight Edge
- Compass
- A Pair of Scissors
Course
Philosophy
Our approach to mathematics for elementary teachers is based
on a specific theory of teaching and learning mathematics called constructivism.
Research in learning theory shows that students who learn mathematics
effectively must be actively involved in the process, not just passive
listeners/observers. In particular, in order to really learn and understand
mathematical ideas and processes you must become deeply involved in activities
such as exploring, discussing, analyzing, explaining, conjecturing, defending,
negotiating, testing, and evaluating. To do this you need good problems to
solve, interaction with others on solutions, and opportunities to write your
conclusions.
The course is designed to help you:
- acquire knowledge and develop understanding of the conceptual and
procedural foundations for teaching elementary school mathematics
- develop the ability to teach mathematics developmentally
(i.e., basing procedural knowledge on clear connections with prior
conceptual knowledge)
- acquire knowledge and develop ability to create a problem solving
environment in the classroom, to set and achieve teaching goals, to
stimulate and manage classroom discourse, to use technology effectively,
and to make ongoing instructional decisions
- acquire confidence sufficient to teach elementary mathematics positively
and enthusiastically
Grading
Policies
Grading Distribution
| Two Examinations at 250 points each |
500 points |
| Final Exam |
300 points |
| Individual Homework |
100 points |
| Group Homework |
100 points |
| Total |
1000 points |
Grading scale. Grades are based on the number of points
accumulated throughout the course.
Approximate minimal percentages required to obtain a given grade
are:
Grading Scale in
percentages
| |
A |
B |
C |
D |
| + |
|
(87.5, 90) |
(77.5, 80) |
(67.5, 70) |
| |
[92.5, 100] |
[82.5, 87.5] |
[72.5, 77.5] |
[62.5, 67.5] |
| - |
[90, 92.5) |
[80, 82.5) |
[70, 72.5) |
[60, 62.5) |
Other factors that affect grades are
- Late work. A written
assignment or computer assignment is late if it is not
received at the beginning of class on the due date. Late
work need not be accepted. Work accepted late may be
assessed a penalty. Make-up tests will only be given by
arrangement with the instructor for reasons of documented
emergency.
- Accuracy of solutions.
Written assignments and examination questions and problems
must be formulated carefully in terms of words and
symbols used in the course. Credit is determined by the
degree to which answers and solutions respond to the
specific question or problem stated. Maximize your credit
by learning the language and symbols of the course.
- Written Assignments.
Collected assignments must be prepared in a style
suitable for grading. The following guidelines are used
to determine credit:
- the organization must be easy to
follow
- the work must be legible
- complete solutions must be written
for problems (not just answers); answers must be
clearly marked
- use complete sentences to answer
questions
- Electronic Assignments.
Assignments sent in as attachments must be prepared in a style
suitable for grading. The following guidelines are used
to determine credit:
- the organization must be easy to
follow
- the formatting must enhance the
organization
- complete solutions must be written
for problems (not just answers); answers must be
clearly indicated
- use complete sentences to answer
questions
- Examinations and the Final Examination.
Examinations and the Final Examination will include problems and
questions over material assigned in the text, readings
and handouts, as well as material presented in class.
No examination shall be missed without prior consent or
a well documented emergency beyond your control. A
score of zero will be assigned for an examination that
is missed without prior consent or a well documented emergency
beyond your control.
The examination schedule is included
in the
daily schedule. I do not intend to accept excuses such
as poor communication with parents, benefactors,
surf team sponsors and/or travel agents.
Attendance Policy.
After you miss the equivalent of 3 class periods, you will be
warned of impending de-enrollment. If you miss the equivalent of
6 class periods, you may be de-enrolled or given a course grade of "F" for the semester.
Classroom Attire
.
All students are expected to dress in ways that make the classroom
a place where all students are comfortable and can work efficiently.
Distracting attire is not permitted in the classroom. For example,
attire associated with the "rush" activities of fraternities and
sororities simply causes too many distractions in the classroom.
If you choose to "rush" one of the fraternities or sororities,
please make sure the "rush" officials know that "rush" attire will not
be allowed in this classroom.
Academic Accommodations.
While all students are expected to meet the minimum standards for completion of this course
as established by the instructor, students with disabilities may require academic accommodations.
At Point Loma Nazarene University, these students are requested to file documentation during the
first two weeks of the semester with the Academic Support Center (ASC), located in the
Bond Academic Center. This policy assists the University in its commitment to full compliance
with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Section 504 (a)
prohibits discrimination against students with
special needs and guarantees all qualified students equal access to and benefits of PLNU
programs and activities. Once the student files documentation, the ASC will contact
the student’s instructors and provide written recommendations for reasonable and
appropriate accommodations to meet the individual learning needs of the student.
Cheating
Policy
Any student who is caught cheating on an exam will
receive a zero on that exam and may receive a course grade of "F" for
the semester.
The Final Exam
is a
Comprehensive
Examination.
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Last modified on 5-Jan-2008
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