Course Information Sheet


Course: Math 200-01 - Math for Elementary Teaching I - 4 Credit/Contact Hours - Spring 2012
IAI Code: None.  The course is a necessary prerequisite for Math 206, which has IAI code M1 903.
Delivery Mode: Face-to-face
Meeting Time: MW 5:00pm - 6:40pm
Meeting Place: Room 2625

Instructor: Steve Kifowit, Rm 2305, Ph. (708) 709-3954
Email: skifowit 'at' prairiestate.edu
Web: http://prairiestate.edu/skifowit/math
Office Hours: MW 3:30pm-5:00pm, TTh 11:00am-12:00pm, or by appointment

Text: A Problem Solving Approach to Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers; 10th edition (2010); Billstein, Libeskind, & Lott
(There are cost-effective alternatives to purchasing the text in the bookstore.)

Course Description: This course covers topics such as problem solving, bases other than ten, estimation, mental math, number systems and operations in these number systems using algorithmic and non-algorithmic techniques.  This course satisfies the Illinois teaching certificate prerequisite.  This is a content course, not a methods course in teaching mathematics.

Course Prerequisite:
Math 095 (Intermediate Algebra) and Math 096 (Geometry), both with at least a C
-or-
Math 095 (Intermediate Algebra) and one year of high school geometry, both with at least a C
-or-
A qualifying score on the math placement test

Course Goals/Objectives:
1.) To understand the theories behind elementary mathematics.
2.) To develop the ability to conceptualize mathematics at the elementary level.
3.) To develop strong problem solving skills and convey the importance of teaching these skills at all levels of the mathematics curriculum.
4.) To understand the algebraic properties underlying elementary mathematics.

Attendance Policy: Regular class attendance is an essential component of successful learning. Students are responsible for prompt attendance and participation in all class meetings. If you miss class, you will not be allowed to make up any tests, quizzes, or homework assignments that you may have missed. All material covered in class is the student's responsibility.

Grading: Your grade will be based on your performance on three 50-point tests, a 75-point comprehensive final exam, approximately ten 5-point weekly quizzes, and miscellaneous problems (0-50 points). The grading scale is as follows:

A --- 88% and above
B --- 77% - 87%
C --- 66% - 76%
D --- 55% - 65%
F --- below 55%

You may estimate your current grade at any time during the semester by computing the following percentage: 100% * ( Total points accumulated ) / ( Total points possible ). Please feel free to discuss your grade with me at any time during the semester.  Throughout the semester, grades will be posted online at http://www.engrade.com/skifowit.

Homework: Homework problems will be assigned on a daily basis. Your work will not normally be collected, but we will often discuss homework problems in class. Keep up to date on your homework! Homework problems often show up on tests, quizzes, and other assignments.

Tests/Exams: Test problems will be similar to class examples, quiz problems, and homework problems. Some test problems may be multiple choice, but you should also expect computational problems and writing problems.  Partial credit may be awarded on any type of problem, but only for correct work.  You must work individually on all tests. No make-up tests will be given. At the end of the semester, your lowest test score will be replaced by two-thirds of your final exam score (if this helps you).

Quizzes: Be prepared for a five-point quiz on each Wednesday (unless a test is scheduled). No make-up quizzes will be given. All quiz work is to be done on an individual basis unless otherwise stated. At the end of the semester, your lowest quiz score will be dropped.

Final Exam: The final exam is comprehensive and will be worth 75 points toward your final grade.  You will be given two chances to do well on the final exam.  See the lecture pace for final exam dates.

Calculators: A scientific calculator is required for this course.  The TI-73, TI-83, or TI-84 are the recommended calculators.

Reading Assignments:  Reading assignments will be given throughout the semester.  The material covered in your readings will appear on tests and quizzes, even if it never comes up in class.

Misc. information:
1.) The last day to withdraw from the course is April 13. For refund information, refer to the spring schedule book. If you wish to withdraw from the course, it is your responsibility to do so. Any student who does not come to class, yet fails to withdraw, will be given an F.
2.) You are expected to spend roughly 12 hours per week on coursework - 4 hours in class and 8 hours out of class. If you cannot make this commitment, you should reconsider taking this course.
3.) The grading scale will be strictly adhered to! Final percentages will be rounded to the nearest whole number.
 

Course information, including answer keys for tests and quizzes, can be found at http://prairiestate.edu/skifowit/math