Math 506 - Selected Topics
“…A
mathematician, like a painter or poet, is a maker of patterns. If his (or her)
patterns are more permanent than theirs, it is
because they are made with ideas.” – G.H. Hardy
Professor: Michael Bardzell
Office: Henson Hall 132D
Office Hours: - 1:30-3:00 Tuesday, Wednesday; 9:00 – 10:00, 2:00 - 3:00 Thursday; or by appointment.
Telephone: 410-543-6474 (office)
410-546-9642 (Home)
e-mail: mjbardzell@salisbury.edu
Intended audience: Teachers of middle school and adjacent grades.
Goals: This course will be a "custom designed" experience for local teachers. There will be an emphasis on algebra, pre-algebra, and data analysis. However, other topics will be included based on the needs and interests of the enrolled teachers. The course will emphasize hands-on learning and student-centered activities. Group work, manipulatives, and the use of technology will be important components of the course.
Resources: There will be no text for
this course. Content will be learned from handouts and class discussions. In
class we will do a significant amount of group work and hands-on
activities. Consequently, class participation is an important component
of this course. In particular, attendance is essential! Resources such as the
NCTM Navigations Series (for several mathematical disciplines) and the National
Library of Virtual Manipulatives will be utilized.
Grading will be based on the following categories:
· Homework, computer activities/assignments, class participation: Assignments will include written homework and possibly a few computer exercises. Some homework will also be presented in class by the students.
· Project: The project will be an individual effort. Project topics must be approved by the instructor early in the semester. A separate handout contains a detailed description of the project assignment (click on Project link).
· Lesson Plan: Students will work in groups (probably groups of 3) on a lesson plan. At the end of the semester, each group will present their lesson plan in class. Part of the grade for this category will be based on the class presentation. A separate handout contains a detailed description of the assignment (click on Lesson Plan link).
Grading:
Homework, computer activities/assignments, class participation 50%
Project 25%
Lesson Plan 25%
90% guarantees an A, 80% a B, 70% a C, and 60% a D. If these cutoffs are adjusted downward it will be done at the end of the semester.
Honor System: You must follow the University Policy on Academic Integrity.