Teaching Secondary Mathematics

Catalog description

Study of the objectives, content, methods, and evaluation procedures of mathematics. EDUC 417 Teaching Secondary Mathematics (3) This course is designed to prepare students with the methods and knowledge necessary to teach mathematics in today's middle level and secondary classrooms. The pedagogical approaches and content needed to teach with a focus on understanding will be highlighted. Learning theories and their role in the mathematics classroom will be discussed and sample teaching strategies will be modeled. Discussions will also be based on field experiences and case study analyses. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics standards addressed in the Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (2000), the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (2010), the PA Core Standards in Mathematics (2013), as well as the Pennsylvania Standards Aligned System will be emphasized and demonstrated throughout the course. Long and short range planning of teaching units will address content, assessment, technological integration, historical connections, equity for all students, ELL, and adaptations for special needs students. A problem solving/constructivist approach to learning and assessment will be emphasized. Students will be engaged in cooperative learning experiences, use manipulatives and technology, and will be assessed through both formative and summative evaluations. The content and processes of mathematics emphasized throughout this course will be presented with three principal goals in mind: to inform students about current research related to teaching mathematics, to enhance students' pedagogical mathematical knowledge and skills, and to help students develop as competent mathematics teaching professionals.