Summer 2012 Schedule-TTR

Portfolio Information

Algebra Performance Task Handout (Part 5 of the Portfolio)

Scoring Rubric for Algebra Performance Task

Algebra in Teaching Handout 1

Algebra in Teaching Handout 2

Algebra in Teaching Handout 3

Algebra in Teaching Handout 4

Journal Entries (Part 2 of the Portfolio)

Article Reflection Handout (Part 4 of the Portfolio)

Article Reflection Information Sheet

Review Sheets for Tests

1

2

3

Final Exam

MATH 3803

Summer 2012

Course Name: Algebra for P-8 Teachers I Office Number: 210 Boyd Building

Instructor: Dr. Sheila Rivera Office Hours: TBA

E-mail: srivera@westga.edu Telephone: O: 678-839-4141

Webpage: www.westga.edu/~srivera

Course Objectives: Following completion of the course, the student will demonstrate the following:

1. An understanding of standard vocabulary and symbols associated with algebra;
2. A better understanding of fundamental concepts of algebra, including linear and quadratic equations in one and two variables, linear inequalities, functions, polynomials, exponents, and radicals;
3. The ability to recognize and correct “common errors” made by algebra students;
4. A better understanding of appropriate strategies for teaching algebra;
5. A better understanding of the uses of a variety of manipulatives, technology, and other materials for teaching algebra in grades P-8; and
6. An ability to relate algebra topics studied in this course to the mathematics taught in grades P-8.

Text: Flash Review for Algebra, Pearson Addison-Wesley, 2004, Author: Jon Becker, ISBN: 0-321-14309-4.

Additional Required Supplies: There is a course packet of handouts available at the university bookstore.

Evaluation:

Test 1 100 points

Test 2 100 points

Test 3 100 points

Project 180 points

Final 150 points

Total Possible Points: 630 points

Grading Policy: A (567-630 pts.), B (504-566 pts.), C (441-503 pts.), D (378-440 pts.), F (0-377 pts.)

ABSOLUTELY NO CELL PHONE USE DURING EXAMS

Late Assignments Policy: Hard copies of all assignments, journal entries, etc. are due at the beginning of class on the specified date (see course schedule). Late assignments will not be accepted unless prior approval has been given by the instructor. In the event that a late assignment is accepted, the grade on the assignment will be lowered.

Attendance Policy: Students are expected to attend all classes. This term a student may withdraw with a grade of W through 6/28, regardless of grades, absences, etc. This deadline has been established by the University. After this deadline, if a student has accumulated more than four (for TR class) or two (for W class) absences throughout the semester, he/she will normally receive a grade of WF. (A grade of WF counts as an F.) The two absences should be saved for sickness and other emergencies. Late arrivals and early exits count as one-half of an absence. If a student is absent for a test and has an excuse from someone in authority, then the final exam grade will be used for the missed test in the calculation of the final course grade. No make-up exams will be given (this means no late tests/no early tests under any circumstances).

Suggested Problems: ****This information is only for those who purchase the text for this course. For each section covered in class there will be a set of problems provided. These are not homework problems in the sense that they will be taken up and graded. Instead, these are problems that are recommended for you to work in order to be successful in the class. If you have questions concerning the suggested problems, you should address these questions to the instructor during office hours, before or after class, or during the review session prior to the test.

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 and review lecture notes before consulting with the instructor. The instructor is very concerned about the student’s achievement and well-being and encourages anyone having difficulties with the course to come by the office for extra help. Grades will be based on coursework, not on Hope Grant needs, GPA, or any other factors outside the realm of coursework.