PROFESSIONALIZED
SUBJECT MATTER IN
PRECALCULUS MATHEMATICS
Ma 514
Course Description
This course present pre-calculus topics,
particularly trigonometry and matrix operations. Attention will be given to historical
considerations and to current trends in teaching this content. This course requires evidence that the
student is making effective use of these concepts in the student’s own
classroom.
Prerequisite: Algebra
Goals of the Course
1.
To provide a suitable approach to pre-calculus for teachers in both
elementary and secondary schools.
2.
To explore potential techniques for teaching selected concepts of pre-calculus.
3.
To increase familiarity with technological tools which can enhance the
teaching and learning of pre-calculus.
4.
To extend the student’s familiarity with various forms of assessment in
pre-calculus.
5.
To increase awareness of professional literature in pre-calculus
education.
Instructional Procedures
This course is conducted in such a way
that it provides a model for the teaching of pre-calculus with emphasis on the
use of technology to enhance learning.
Students should take an active part in the presentation of topics.
Course Content
1.
The concept of function: numerical, graphical, and algebraic.
2.
Linear, power, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and
trigonometric functions.
3.
Families of functions and characteristics of families.
4.
The role of the graphing calculator in teaching pre-calculus.
5.
Modeling in the pre-calculus classroom.
Evaluation Methods
1. Participation in classroom discussion and
activities.
2.
Preparation of problem assignments and reaction papers on readings and
films.
3.
Oral presentation and/or written in-class exams.
4.
Culminating experience of project, paper, or final exam.
Bibliography
A.
Required Text
Connally, Eric, et al., Precalculus: Functions Modeling Change (Preliminary
Edition), John Willey & Sons, Inc.,
Contemporary Precalculus through
Applications: Functions, Data Analysis
and Matrices,
Gordan, Sheldon, et al., Functioning
in the Real World: A Precalculus
Experience
B.
Additional Required
Heid, M. Kathleen, et al., Algebraic
in a Technological World: Addenda
Series, Grades 9-12, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 1995.
C.
Supporting Bibliography
Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for
School Mathematics,
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics,
Heid, M. Kathleen, et al., Algebraic
in a Technological World: Addenda
Series, Grades 9-12, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 1995.
Technology in the Classroom, Volumes I
and II, Consortium for
Mathematics and its Applications
D. Relevant Periodical Sources
“Algebraic Thinking,” focus issue of Mathematics
Teacher February 1997.
College Mathematics Journal, Mathematics Association of
Consortium, newsletter of Consortium for
Mathematics and its Application (COMAP).
Mathematics Teacher, National Council of Teachers of
Mathematics.
E.
Other Resources
Software:
Converge
Derive*
Videos:
Polynomials, California Institute of Technology.*
Sines & Cosines, Part 1 and 2, California Institute of Technology.*