Mathematical Reasoning Project Requirements

A successful mathematical reasoning project will contain the following three elements:

A finished lesson plan that will be handed out to each person in the audience. Included in the lesson plan will be the standard related to mathematical reasoning or discrete mathematics (e.g. NCTM, Maryland, Delaware, or some other set of standards) that the lesson is intended to address.
An oral presentation that follows the lesson plan and addresses some of the issues that need special care to ensure that the lesson achieves its goals.
A paper that addresses the mathematics behind the lesson. This paper should

a. Be written for a middle school mathematics teacher

b. Address the goals indicated below.

Some Mathematical Reasoning Course Goals

Goals of this course are that each participant will

become skillful in explaining and justifying conjectures, arguments, proofs, and problem solutions, both orally and in writing;

develop units/lessons addressing K-12 learning objectives related to mathematical reasoning and discrete mathematics;

Identify connections between discrete mathematics and other disciplines;
know the strengths and limitations of mathematical techniques and reasoning in solving real-world problems;
be adept in using some technological tools, such as calculators, and computers, in problem solving and mathematical communication;
use a variety of mathematical techniques and representations in problem solving.

Some Potentially Helpful Links to Sample Lesson Ideas:

Provided by Schools of California Online Resources for Education (SORE)

Lessons were written by teachers selected to participate in SCORE Mathematics

workshops. Lessons and links reflect our CA's Mathematics Standards and the

NCTM Standards.

Discrete Math Project at the University of Colorado