This is an algebraic modeling course for teachers. This course is suitable for teachers who (a) hold an elementary teaching certificate and are seeking a middle school mathematics endorsement, (b) have never taught algebra before, or (c) have taught algebra and are seeking more understanding of algebraic modeling of real-world problems.
In this course we look at mathematical models of real-world problems using algebraic, graphical, and numerical representations. We use algebra and technology to model, analyze, and solve real-world problems.
Course title: Algebraic Mathematical Modeling for Middle School Teachers
Course number: Math 599
STAR Number: 34277
Dates: Summer 2008. 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon on the following days.
- Monday-Thursday, June 9-12,
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, June 23, 24, 26, 27,
- Tuesday-Friday, July 8-11.
Method of delivery: This is a face-to-face class with 12 class sessions on the WIU Quad Cities Campus.
Graphics Calculator Required: TI-73 recommended. TI-83 or TI-84 also acceptable.
Credit hours: 3 SH
Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. Call me (Dr. Jim Olsen) 309/298-2317 and or e-mail me (jr-olsen@wiu.edu) to get permission.*
Intended audience: This course is intended for practicing teachers seeking professional development, CPDU credit, background in algebra, or a middle school math endorsement.
Textbook: Functions and Change: A Modeling Approach to College Algebra. 3rd Edition. by Crauder, Evans, Noell. Houghton Mifflin Co. 2007.
Instructor: James Olsen. Information about Jim. Jim Olsen's homepage
Instructor's Phone: 309/298-2317This is a new course.
Math 407 Number Theory Concepts in School Mathematics (3 SH) is also being offered this summer in the Quad Cities. The prerequisite for Math 407 is Math 123 or Math 128 or equivalent. This course Math 599-Algebraic Mathematical Modeling For Teachers will serve as a pre/co-requisite for Math 407. That is, a student may take both Math 407 and Math 599 this summer. (Math 407 meets June 16-19, June 30-July 3, July 14-17, 1:30-5:00 p.m., which are the weeks between and after my course.) Furthermore, Math 599 also serves as the prerequisite for Math 402, 406, and 408.
Note on background: In this course I will take some time to review basic algebra concepts such as solving equations. Participants are expected to come into the course knowing how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and mixed numbers.