Conceptual Algebra for Teachers

Conceptual Algebra for Teachers

Prototype course for ADEPT, taught Fall 2001
Large graduate class (16) meeting 1/week, 5:30-8:15pm
Audience: Mostly elementary certified middle-school teachers
Represented: 7 our of the 9 MD counties, plus DE (not VA)

Paradigm: "Spiral" of, and inter-weaving of:

Relevant "Mental Pushups" increase mathematical reasoning skill

Middle school curriculum at a teacher's (higher, conceptual) level

Pedagogy/Methods from a Math-content point of view

Key Elements:

Problem-Solving / Modeling / Frequent Groupwork

Mathematical Reasoning: How and Why?

Algebra Concept Map/revised ; Analyzing errors

Weekly written assignments

Use of correct notation and "Mathematical Grammar"

Enrichment readings: NCTM journals, Glenn Commission

Manipulatives & Technology:

Integrated with Content-based discussion and analysis

Lesson-Plans assignment, based on Rubric

Full-class discussions & Oral Presentations

Final Course Portfolio (beautiful work!)

Model National Curricula (CMP, MiC)

Pre/Post assessment

Class Email list &web-based discussion board

Content Focus: Patterns "Algebraization", Functions; Picture Proofs (connections with geometry); Graphical interpretation; Converting among graphical numerical, written, symbolic; Lines, Linearity, Slope, Proportions; Non-linearity, quadratics, optimization; Qualitative analysis of graphs; Exponential functions.