Math Page
Archimedes
said that
Mathematics is the language with which God wrote
the universe, and I agree. To understand math is to be able
to
recognize patterns, calculate, interpret data, and see the geometric
figures that surround us. Increasingly, our lives are
quantified,
and those who cannot or choose not to do math must pay others to do it
for them.
When I teach math, no matter what level or topic, I am most interested that students understand the concepts involved, not just parrot back what they see me do. The authors of Adding It Up: Helping Children Learn Mathematics, have suggested five components of mastering mathematics: Understanding, Computing, Applying, Reasoning, and Engaging (being curious enough to give it a try). (Note that the initials of these components form the acronym UCARE.)
I enjoy teaching the various levels of Algebra because of the beauty and poetry of algebraic relationships. Also, Algebra is often a barrier between where a student is and where s/he wants to be, and I like to help tear down the barrier, brick by brick.
I enjoy teaching MAT 108, Understanding K-8 Mathematics, the math course especially designed for paraprofessional educators because I designed the course based on a sabbatical semester of working with a local K-12 math curriculum committee while they investigated various publishers' curricula to determine which one(s) best addressed the Missouri Grade Level Expecations for Math.
And
I
love to teach Structures of Real
Numbers, the math courses for
future teachers. I have spent a good deal of time researching
what math concepts teachers need to know and ways to teach
them.
I feel responsible to help future teachers understand the concepts they
will teach so well that they can explain them in several ways to help
students who may be struggling. I also feel responsible to
give
future teachers a positive experience with mathematics so that they can
pass on a positive attitude toward math to their students. I
calculate that I can potentially influence the mathematical
understanding and enjoyment of more than 600 K-8 students by
influencing the understanding and enjoyment of one pre-service
teacher. What a responsibiilty! What a
privilege!
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contents
nor the link identifiers on this page are monitored, reviewed, or
endorsed
by St. Charles County Community College.