Text: Billstein, Libeskind, Lott, A Problem Solving Approach to Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers, Seventh Edition, Addison Wesley Longman.

Course Purpose This is the entry course for the Northeastern Masters of Arts in Mathematics for Elementary Teachers program. The course covers "Mathematics topics and techniques that are relevant to advanced mathematics learning and the teaching of mathematics in the schools" (from the catalog course description).

Student Objectives/Outcomes The student will have an appreciation for the NCTM Standards Based approach to Mathematics teaching, will develop problem solving ability, will understand the logical basis of mathematics and will be able to communicate mathematics coherently using appropriate notation and representations.

Method of Instruction Lecture, discussion, classroom activities, group activities and an individual project.

Method of Evaluation Students will be evaluated on class assignments and activities, homework and a project. Regular class attendance is strongly recommended as late work will not be accepted. There will be a Make-up test at the end of the semester to enable students to make up a limited amount of work. Specifically the final grade will be based on:

• In class activities (Approximately 140 points) There will generally be two class activities to be turned in and graded each class session. There are NO makeups.

• Homework (Approximately 70 points) Homework will assigned and graded for each class session. Late assignments will NOT be accepted, however assignments will be posted on the internet at my course site (if required the password/code is 40881) and will be accepted by mail or delivery to the instructor's office so it is not required that you be in class.

  In class activities and homework will be graded on a 5 point scale. Papers which show extra effort or originality may receive scores in excess of 5 points. In addition, extra credit activities will be suggested for some assignments.

• Make-up Exam Students will have an opportunity to partially make up classes and/or homework missed by taking an exam in class December 13. There will be a maximum of 60 points available. There will be no review for the comprehensive exam.

• Project (30 points) Students will be required to turn in a project. Details will be given later, each project will require an individual investigation with a written report. This will become part of your permanent portfolio and will not be returned. The project will be due November 29.

Course grades will be given according to the following scale:

Note: This scale is designed with the expectation that each student will miss one day of class. Students who miss no more than one day should be able to reach 215 points without taking the makeup final. Once you have the number of points for the grade you desire it is not necessary to attend further classes.

Tentative Schedule