MATH-01-201 Structures of Mathematics
Rowan University Department of Mathematics Spring 2007

Professor: Evelyn Hanna
HannaE@rowan.edu (**Note: There is no “h” at the end of my last name.)
www.rowan.edu/mars/depts/math/Hanna/index.html
Office &
Hours: Robinson Hall 2nd Floor; MW: 2:00 – 3:00

Textbook: Mathematics for Elem. Teachers: An Activity Approach; McGraw Hill – 7th Edition; Bennet, Burton, & Nelson.
Mathematics for Elem. Teachers: A Conceptual Approach; McGraw Hill – 7th Edition; Bennet & Nelson
*You will also need a calculator for the course. Cell phones and mp-3 players are not required and may not be used as calculators.
Catalog
Description: This course concerns the development of number systems and algebraic structures, including the natural numbers, the integers, rational numbers, real and complex numbers. Concrete examples of selected algebraic structures such as modular arithmetic and matrices are also included. Students will be required to reason mathematically, solve problems, and communicate mathematics effectively at different levels of formality, using a variety of representations of mathematical concepts and procedures. Use of calculators is required. Students are expected to have completed an equivalent of Intermediate Algebra.
Course
Objectives: This course is intended to provide students with the opportunity to develop their knowledge of the content and discourse of mathematics, including: (1) mathematical concepts and procedures and the connections among them; (2) multiple representations of mathematical concepts and procedures; (3) ways to reason mathematically, solve problems, and communicate mathematics effectively at different levels of formality; (4) nature of mathematics, the contributions of different cultures toward the development of mathematics, and the role of mathematics in culture and society; (5) changes in the nature of mathematics and the way we teach, learn, and do mathematics resulting from the availability of technology; (6) place of “school mathematics” (what students have learned in elementary school and high school) within the discipline of mathematics; and (7) relationship of mathematics to other subjects and its applications in society. Furthermore, students in the course will use physical materials and models to explore fundamental properties of number systems, to describe real-world relationships, and to explore selected algebraic structures. They will also develop conjectures and intuitive proofs of number theoretic properties. This course is especially appropriate for those students preparing to be elementary or special education teachers.
Course
Content: I. Nature and Use of Number II. Patterns and Functions
III. Number Concepts and Relationships IV. Algebraic Structures
Methods &
Activities: Methods and activities for instruction include small-group work, whole-class discussion, and lecture. Students will be expected to share ideas, to justify claims and solutions, and to understand and critique the claims and solutions of others during small group and whole-class discussions.

Grading: There will be announced and unannounced quizzes and two in-class exams. Absolutely no make-up quizzes! Make-up exams will be given if you provide a medical excuse with written documentation within one week of missing the exam.

Graded Activity # of Points


Two Written Assignments
50
Class Participation 75
Quizzes (top 5 – each worth 15 points) 75
Exam 1 100
Exam 2 100
Final Exam 100

 

*Note: The total number of points possible is 500.
The grading scale used is as follows:

A: 465-500 points B- 400-414 points D+ 335-349 points
A- 450-464 points C+ 385-399 points D 315-334 points
B+ 435-449 C 365-384 points D- 300-314 points
B 415-434 points C- 350-364 points F 0-299 points

 

Homework: Homework from the textbook is assigned after each session and can be found below. It is critical that you do your homework consistently. Any questions on homework assignments will be addressed in the following class. Homework will be collected periodically.
Class
Participation: I very much value your input. My number one priority is ensuring your success. So, if you do not speak, then I do not know how to help you. Moreover, your input may be valuable to other students who may be struggling. Remember, class participation is not only a part of your grade, but also an easy way to make class fun! You should participate in small-group and whole-class discussions as a means of promoting your own learning and contributing to cultivating a classroom community. Participation involves sharing ideas and critiquing the ideas being discussed. It is to be understood that the development of mathematical ideas within a community frequently involves discussing ideas that are later determined to be invalid. Thus, students are graded according to thoughtful participation and not mathematical correctness. Remember, if you are not in class, then you cannot participate… so be sure to attend every class.

Academic
Integrity: Any student who cheats during an exam, quiz, or on homework assignments will receive an automatic ’F’. A second offence will result in failure of the course.

Tentative Day-to-Day Schedule

Class Date Topic Homework

** You should bring your Activity Book and Manipulative Kit to class each evening.