Courses - Summer 07


Summer 07 Middle Grade Endorsement Courses

from the c(m+s)i - Chicago Math and Science Initiative


MTHT 591 - Topics in Elementary/Junior High School Mathematics: Advanced Mathematical Content for Middle School Teachers 4 graduate credit hours.

This course, which is part of the CPS Algebra Initiative, is the second of a 2-semester sequence for teachers in elementary and middle grade schools that would like to offer algebra in the 8th grade to qualified students. The course is designed both for preparing teachers to teach:
-- an 8th grade algebra class, and/or
-- lower grades mathematics so as to build students' foundations in algebraic thinking.

The course builds on the foundation of the first course in the sequence (MthT 465) to deepen and extend teachers' knowledge of algebra and the teaching of algebra. Topics included are solving quadratic equations, introduction to higher order polynomials, graphing parabolas, and geometric sequences and series. Additional topics may include introductions to exponential functions, complex numbers, and the Binomial theorem. Problem solving, building connections between algebra and arithmetic and geometry, and developing strategies for incorporating algebraic processes and content into mathematics instruction at different grade levels are integral to the course.

The Summer 2007 offering will be:
  • Counting, Patterns, Variables, and Algebraic Expressions (review)
  • Linear Behavior and Equations (review)
  • Exponential and Other Behavior
  • Formulas, Graphs, and Functions
  • Related Functions and their Graphs
  • Quadratic Behavior and Parabolas
  • Completing the Square
  • Quadratic Equations, maxima and minima problems, word problems
  • Polynomials, Operations, and Cubic Equations
  • Sequences and Series
Professor : John M. Masley email 305 SEO 312-413-1187
Location : 215 Taft Hall, UIC East Campus
Dates : Mon, Tue, Thurs, and Fri
from June 18 through July 12
Time : 2:30 - 5:30 (150 minutes, may end earlier)




MTHT 591 - Topics in Elementary/Junior High School Mathematics: Logic and Problem Solving
4 graduate credit hours.

This course is designed to give in-service teachers a deeper understanding and good classroom tools for addressing six NCTM Standards . Algebra, Geometry, Problem Solving, Reasoning and Proof, Connections, and Communication.

Three themes will be explored: 1) mathematical logic including symbolic logic, paradoxes, syllogisms, if-then statements, and applications, 2) problems that develop important mathematics in geometry, arithmetic, number theory, logic, real world applications, contests, and recreational mathematics, 3) implications for teaching and student learning

Throughout this course, we will see the techniques and natural use of algebraic thinking and technology for problem solving. This will provide teachers with a good background for the "algebra initiative" project.



Professor : Dr. Steve Jordan email 624 SEO 312-996-3307
Location : Room 106, UIC East Campus
Medill Technical Professional Development Center
(Medill TPDC) 1326 West 14th Place, Chicago, IL
Date & Time May 14, May 21, May 30 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
June 4, June 11, June 13 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
June 18, June 20, June 25, June 27 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
July 2, July 9, July 11, July 16, July 18 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm



MTHT 490 - Topics in the Teaching of Secondary Mathematics: Fostering Algebra
This course offers graduate credit that may be transferred towards the MST (Master of Science in the Teaching of Mathematics)

This course will address three aspects of algebra:

  • 1) establishing the connections between concrete situations and algebraic formalization
  • 2) passing from solution of specific problems to understanding both the procedures and reasons for more abstract formulations
  • 3) placing algebra in the general context of mathematics.

    • Driscoll's Fostering Algebraic Thinking focuses on helping students to understand the meaning of algebraic expressions. We will extend this by a study of the structure of algebra. Successful teaching of algebra requires 'meaningful manipulation' that presents algebra as a coherent subject rather than a collection of unrelated procedures.

    Materials in this direction will be drawn from both a text such as Algebra by Gelfand and Shen, the math ed literature, and materials developed by Baldwin and others. Further, we will study the issues involved in teaching algebra using such computer programs as Agile Mind and Cognitive Tutor. We will look at algebra as part of the 6-12 curriculum and consider both what students bring to the course and how algebra can be developed as a foundation for further mathematics.

    Final selection of topics will be decided with class input. Possibilities include:

  • expectations of students
  • linear functions, proportions, and variables
  • tropical mathematics
  • mathematical modeling and scientific laws
  • linear regression and least squares
    • Participants will be expected to do problems, make presentations, and write a short paper.

    Instructors : John Baldwin(UIC), Anatoly Libgober(UIC), and Maria Marcini (Dunbar H.S.)
    Location : Chicago Military Academy, 3519 S. Giles
    Dates : Mon, Wed, and Fri
    from July 16 through August 3
    Time : 9:00 am - 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
    Payment information: Please check back for updated information.