Problem Solving In Mathematics

COURSE TITLE: Teaching Problem Solving for K-8 Teachers

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Using hands-on, standards-based activities, participants will better understand the NCTM Process Standards and how to help students develop skills in problem solving, communication and representation. Participants will:

• build new mathematical knowledge through problem solving;
• solve problems that arise in mathematics and in other contexts;
• apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems;
• monitor and reflect on the process of mathematical problem solving;
• organize and consolidate their mathematical thinking though communication;
• communicate their mathematical thinking coherently and clearly;
• analyze and evaluate the mathematical thinking and strategies of others;
• use the language of mathematics to express mathematical ideas precisely;
• create and use representations to organize, record, and communicate mathematical ideas;
• select, apply, and translate among mathematical representations to solve problems; and
• use representations to model and interpret physical, social, and mathematical phenomena.

Dates/Locations (9:00 – 4:00 Saturdays Only):

• Sept 24 th Lesson 1 – SFIS ALL Participants must attend
• Oct 1 st Lesson 2 – Isleta Elementary School Southern Cohort
• Oct 29 th Lesson 2 – Santa Clara Day School Northern Cohort
• Nov 19 th Lesson 3 – Isleta Elementary School Southern Cohort
• Dec 3 rd Lesson 3 – Santa Clara Day School Northern Cohort
• Dec 10 th Lesson 4 – Isleta Elementary School Southern Cohort
• Dec 17 th Lesson 4 – Santa Clara Day School Northern Cohort

Instructors: Debbie Scruggs (NMTC), Randy Thorne and Marie Martinez (Taos Day School), Lisa Mitchell (Laguna Elementary School), Tim Sanchez (NMTC)

Maximum Class Size: Participation is limited to 20 per cohort.

Non-credit Option: Teachers are expected to attend the lessons and to demonstrate proficient mathematical understanding by completing the required homework and journaling in order to receive the stipend and mileage reimbursements. Stipends will be paid at the rate of $75 per day for full day attendance (max. $300), $25 per lesson for completing homework and journaling assignments on time (max. $100), and $100 for successfully conducting the observation activity and submitting report by December 10 th.

Credit Option: EDU 395/595 through NMSU, 3 credits (to be paid for by the individual participant - $150 for the 3 credits) Spring 2006 Semester

Course grade will depend on attendance, completion rate of work, and the degree of mathematical understanding demonstrated in the assignments and assessments. In addition to attending the classes and completing the required journaling and other assignments, teachers receiving academic credit are expected to conduct a research project in their school. Course requirements must be completed by February 28, 2006 to receive credit.

For more information, contact Debbie at 259-3738. The deadline for applications is September 1st !

Download Application (September 1st deadline)