MATH 4713

Course Name: Probability & Statistics for Teachers Office: 311 Boyd Bldg.

Instructor: Dr. Nydia Powell Office Hours: MTWR 1:00-3:00

E-mail: npowell@westga.edu Telephone: 770-836-6489

Course Objectives: After completion of the course, the student will demonstrate:

1. a better understanding of fundamental concepts in probability and

statistics, including the organization of data, numerical descriptive measures, discrete random variables and their probability distributions, and continuous random variables and the normal distribution;

2. a better understanding of appropriate strategies for teaching mathematics concepts at the P-8 level, and

3. a better understanding of the uses of a variety of manipulatives and other materials for the P-8 level.

Text: Workshop Statistics: Discovery with Data and Fathom, Key College Publications, 2001. Authors: Rossman, Chance, & Lock.

Evaluation: Test 1 50 points

Test 2 50 points

Midterm 100 points

Final 100 points

Project 100 points

Total Possible 400 points

Grading Policy: A (360-400 pts), B (320-359 pts), C (280-319 pts), D (240-239 pts), F (0-239 pts)

Attendance Policy: Students are expected to attend all classes. Students are responsible for all assignments and material covered during class regardless of attendance. This term a student may withdraw with a grade of W through October 10, regardless of grades, absences, etc. This deadline has been established by the University. After this deadline, if a student has accumulated more than five absences throughout the semester, he/she will normally receive a grade of WF. (A grade of WF counts as an F.) The five absences should be saved for sickness and other emergencies. Late arrivals and early exits count one-half of an absence. Class will begin and end on time.

If a student is absent for a test and has official documentation, then the student will be expected to complete a make-up exam within one week of the original test date. Lack of preparation is NOT an acceptable excuse!!! Make-up arrangements will be done according to instructor’s discretion. If the instructor grants a make-up exam, do not expect the make-up exam to be the same test the class took; it could very well be more difficult. Students who maintain a perfect attendance record (i.e. no excused or unexcused absences) will have 5 points added to their Total Points at the end of the semester.

Suggested Problems: Problems will be suggested at the end of each session. Many of the problems require the use of statistical software, Fathom. It is strongly recommended that the student stay current with the suggested problems, for they will facilitate the understanding of the lessons being presented in the text. If you have questions concerning the suggested problems, you should see the instructor during office hours or go to the math lab. Class time is not a problem-solving session.

Conferences: Conferences can be beneficial and are encouraged. All conferences should occur during the instructor’s office hours, whenever possible. If these hours conflict with a student’s schedule, then appointments should be made. The conference time is not to be used for duplication of lectures that were missed; it is the student’s responsibility to obtain lecture notes before consulting with the instructor. The instructor is very concerned about the students’ achievement and well being and encourages anyone having difficulties with the course to come by the office for extra help.

Individual Accommodations: Students requiring individual educational accommodations should discuss their needs with the instructor within the first week of class.

Conduct and Academic Integrity: It is expected that students be familiar with the Student Conduct Code, Disciplinary Procedures, and Disciplinary Sanctions in the Student Handbook. Cheating and/or any conduct that disturbs or disrupts the classroom, the instructor, or the students WILL NOT be tolerated!! Any evidence that may show otherwise will be reported; appropriate actions will be taken; and consequences will result. If you are caught cheating on the project, tests, or final exam, you will receive an F for the course.

Pagers and Cell Phones: Students are not allowed to carry pagers and cell phones in the classroom unless they are set to an inaudible setting.