Module One: Number Sense - Integers
Understanding integers and operations involving integers is a building block to successful calculations in Algebra. In this module you will review, then practice and demonstrate the rules of operations for integers using both a manipulatives and a number line. You will also begin to examine the concept of number sense and explore what number sense means to you. With your classmates, you will also discuss the importance of teaching the meaning as well as the method of Mathematics (computations).
Module One Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Two: Number Sense - Order of Operations and Rational Numbers
In this module you will review the order of operations and how they apply to Algebra concepts. This module will also provide an overview on the properties of Rational numbers as well as discuss some misconceptions held by many students about rational numbers. Often these misconceptions prevent students from truly grasping more complex ideas in Algebra such as proportions and slope. You will also continue to practice using your Math blog to record stories and narrative about everyday math problems that you encounter.
Module Two Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Three: Number Sense - Properties of Numbers
In this module you will review the number properties. Understanding the applications of the number properties makes solving everyday problems in Math easier. If you have mastered these properties, you are well on your way to becoming a master at solving word problems and other mathematical operations. This module will review several examples of how the properties of numbers can be applied to solving everyday problems. If you have ever calculated your restaurant bill or estimated your household budget you are actively using these properties.
Module Three Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Four: Identifying Patterns
One of the cornerstones of algebraic reasoning is finding, describing and using patterns to predict events or sequences. In Algebra, functions are used to predict patterns. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) notes that students should be able “to understand patterns, relations and functions.”(NCTM, 2004)
In this module you will study the following types of patterns:
- Non-traditional patterns
- Linear patterns
- Non-linear patterns
Module Four Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Five: Linear Relationships and Functions - Part I
This module will review some important mathematic vocabulary and algebraic concepts including: linear growth and how it relates to linear equations, equations, functions and variables.
Module Five Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Six: Linear Relationships and Functions – Part II
In this module you will further explore the nature of linear equations and functions. You will also analyze and experience learning activities which help you accomplish the following:
- Identify how tables are used to describe changes in values
- Reflect on activities that challenge your students to recognize linear patterns in data from everyday occurrences and situations
- Help your students analyze change in multiple situations and contexts
- Explore and analyze activities which help students translate data stories and graphs into linear equations
- Help students master translation of this data into linear equations.
- Help students recognize when a linear pattern or equation is and is not applicable to the data they find or experience
Module Six Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Seven: Analyzing Forms of Linear Equations
In Modules 5 and 6, you were introduced to the formal definition of linear equations and functions. In this module you will review the direct relationships between data and linear equations. You will also practice evaluating linear equations or reading them and interpreting them visually without the aid of graphing.
Module Seven Outcomes and Activity Checklist
Module Eight: Introduction to Quadratic Equations
This module will briefly review the properties and applications of quadratics. You will also finish this course by developing your own concept map to illustrate your own personal understanding of the relationship between the concepts in this course. You will have the opportunity to practice using an easy-to-use, free software called FreeMind to build your concept map.