Math 491/591: Probability and Statistics for Middle School Teachers - Summer 2007

Instructor: Jodi Fasteen

• Office: M326 Neuberger Hall. This is located between the 3rd and 4th floors.
• Office hours:
  • On class days 12:40 to 1:30
  • Note: Class is 11-12:40 (491/591) and 4- 6:50pm (212), MTWR
  or by appointment.
• e-mail: "jfasteen" at "pdx.edu"
• website: http://www.mth.pdx.edu/~jfasteen
• Homework

• NCTM - Navigating through Data Analysis in Grades 6-8
• NCTM - Navigating through Probability in Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: Math 111 and 212

Topics and Goals: We will explore statistics and probability topics appropriate for the middle school level. There will be an underlying theme of problem solving in all of the topics we will cover.

Goals:

• Think visually with the aid of concrete models and diagrams
• Understand and connect ideas and concepts
• Problem solve and reason mathematically
• Invent procedures and make generalizations
• Communicate mathematically
• Respect and understand the mathematical thinking of others
• Enjoy learning and doing math!

Attendance: There is a strong emphasis in this course on activity based learning. You will be constructing your knowledge of math concepts by doing activities in small groups in class. Regular attendance is essential.

If you miss a class, you should arrange to get notes from a classmate. There are absolutely no make-ups without prior arrangement with the instructor or legitimate excuse such as a doctors note or funeral service card. A note from an employer is not a legitimate excuse. If you do need to make up an exam, you may need to pay a fee at the testing center for proctoring.

Disability Services: If you have a learning or physical disability and are in need of academic accommodations, please contact PSU’s Disability Services at 503-725-4150. They will determine any adjustments that need to be made for your individual needs.

Grading: Homework 35% In Class Activities (Participation, etc) 30% Lessons (Your turn to teach) 10% Project 25%

Grading Scale A 90 - 100% B 80 - 89% C 70 - 79% D 60 - 69% F 0 - 59%

Homework Assignments: Homework assignments must be submitted on time.

Homework will generally be from the following categories:

• Worksheets given in class
• Reading and writing assignments related to the book
• Summary and Follow-up questions related to the classroom projects.

"Lesson:" On Thursday of the second week you will be asked to teach a short lesson, either with a partner or on your own. Some of the potential topics are: independence, mutually exclusive outcomes, compliments, and conditional probability. These are ideas we will see as we do other topics in class, but your job will be to make a short lesson that is specifically about one of these topics. Problem based lessons are preferred, as it gives the students a chance to own the knowledge.

"Project:" This will be due in the last week of the term and will be discussed further in class.