This course is designed to help you (a) extend your mathematical problem solving competency and (b) discover and express mathematical properties, operations, and relationships. As you work through the course activities, we hope that you will
* develop an understanding of the way we build up number and geometric systems using a conceptual framework,
* develop the ability to employ the concrete-to-abstract continuum in communicating mathematical ideas,
* become adept in using calculators and computers in problem solving and communication,
* develop a variety of problem-solving strategies, and
* become skillful in explaining and justifying your reasoning.

Because learning is an active and constructive process, be engaged, persistent, and imaginative in approaching the challenges presented in the exercises and activities. Since the objectives of the exercises and activities are best achieved in a cooperative learning environment, it is intended that you work on the activities with a few of your classmates. To clarify your thinking about the ideas involved in the activities, work together in explaining and justifying your perceptions, strategies, and procedures.

Also, use other resources in working on the activities and exercises. Your text, other reference works, or internet sites might provide needed information. In addition to your classmates, other friends could offer appropriate guidance. A calculator or computer is essential in working some of the activities. Graphing calculators and spreadsheets are particularly useful.

Much of the course's in-class time will be devoted to working in groups on activities in your spiral bound activity book titled "Mathematics for Elementary Teachers: An Activity Approach"

The prerequisites for this course include two years of algebra, one year of geometry, and MATH 130 Fundamental Concepts I. Therefore, your instructor will assume that you have already been exposed to some the topics covered in this course. In the case of many topics, and some sections or chapters, your instructor will not lecture on the material. You will be expected to read the text material and then attempt to work the assigned exercises on your own or in small groups. Your instructor will provide guidance and a conceptual framework as you strive to master the course objectives. Please visit your instructor during his office hours if you feel the need for additional guidance. Also, free tutoring is available for this course. So, although you may have forgotten some of the mathematical knowledge used in this course, you can regain the knowledge necessary to successfully complete the exercises and activities.