MTHE 538 - Methods of Teaching and Assessing Secondary School Mathematics

Credit(s): 3
3 semester hours
The course is designed to prepare teacher candidates to teach mathematics at the secondary school level. The purpose of the course is to examine curricula, materials, methods, and the integration of content, methodology, assessment practices, and other related aspects of mathematics instruction at the secondary school level. Topics include curricular models and mathematical tasks, planning for instruction, assessment standards for school mathematics, adapting instruction for diverse learners including students with special needs and English language learners, classroom management, cooperative learning, motivational techniques, assessment, use of computers and calculators, use of manipulative materials, and communication with parents. Students will discuss the NCTM Standards, the New York State Learning Standards for Mathematics, Science, and Technology, and the ‘new’ Common Core State Standards as they relate to mathematics instruction. Another major component of this course is exploring assessment and evaluation practices, which are integral tools in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Assessment reflects the mathematics that all students need to know an be able to do. Assessment helps guide instruction and contributes significantly to all students’ learning. Therefore, teacher candidates will explore a variety of applications of assessment and evaluation to the classroom setting. Topics include measurement concepts, types of tests, (norm reference, criterion reference, aptitude, and teacher-made tests), concepts of test validity and reliability, student observations, rating scales, analyzing samples of student work, self-evaluation as well as other assessment techniques appropriate for English language learners, and diverse learners. The activities presented will include case studies and real-world models, which will enable students to work collaboratively on a variety of assessment issues, classroom projects, and individual presentations, thereby promoting a student-centered environment. Ten hours of fieldwork is required.