Reviews of two articles in NCTM journals

(Due September 6, 2005, with oral report to class)

Ø      Include complete citation for the article (follow format in the journal)

Ø      Summarize the article

Ø      Examine how the article addresses some aspect of the Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (PSSM)

Ø      How do you envision someday using one or more of the ideas in the article when you are teaching? (Or, if you will not use any of the ideas, tell why.)

Ø      What did you like or dislike about the article?

 

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Practicum assignment for the week of September 5, 2005

During your first visit to your “practicum school,” you are to do the following:

ü      Get materials listed on course syllabus

ü      Introduce yourself to classes, telling them something about yourself

ü      Note arrangement of room, classroom environment, classroom policies, etc.  Does the environment or policies change with different classes of the same teacher?

ü      If students are given time to work in groups or on homework, get involved – ask teacher if you can walk around the room and work with the students.

Report on your practicum visit is due the Tuesday of the following week.

 

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Possible issues in mathematics education as the topic for your paper

Equity/diversity issues in mathematics classrooms

The role of technology

The role of manipulatives/hands-on materials

The “Mathematically Correct” movement

Tracking

Block scheduling

“Algebra for All”

National testing (NAEP, etc.)

International testing (TIMSS, etc.)

Standardized testing

Issues associated with “high-stakes” state testing (AIMS in Arizona)

No Child Left Behind

Graduation requirements

Group work/cooperative learning

Writing/reading and mathematics

Authentic/performance assessment

Discovery learning/inquiry learning

Achievement gap

The role of discourse in the mathematics classroom

Problem Solving

Another topic of your choosing – with approval