COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1. Study all assigned readings (text and on BlackBoard) and be prepared for class discussions. React in your journal to all readings. Graduates record protocols of at least two of the suggested math empirical studies. Study guide questions for the Kamii text are available on BlackBoard. Use both your class journal and web site as tools for thinking. Bring your journal to class, as we will use it in class discussions. Journals will be collected on the seventh class and fourteenth classes. (Obj. 1-7) (20%)
2. Review, discuss and critique local school district, Virginia SOLs, NCTM and NSE Standards and curriculum guidelines for mathematics and science. (Obj. 2) Visit web sites at: http://www.pen.k12.va.us and http://www.nctm.org and http://www.nap.edu/readingroom/books/nses/html/6a.html.
3. With one or two of your classmates, develop and field test original, interactive games that encourage math and science thinking and that support the Virginia SOLs. Each student will present a total of two games, one on the fifth class and another on the seventh class. Record protocols of field tests in your class journal. Supply classmates with handout or computer file of game description and any required graphics. Handout should follow format used in EARLY CHILDHOOD NUMBER GAMES and address the Virginia SOLs. (Objs. 1 & 4) (10 & 10%)
4. With one or two of your classmates, develop and field test lessons that encourage scientific inquiry that support the Virginia SOLs. Each student will present two lessons on integrating science between the twelfth and fourteenth classes. Supply classmates with handout or computer file of each lesson. (Objs. 1 - 8) (10 & 10 %)
5. In-service teachers: Complete a six-hour math or science tutoring project with a student who is falling behind. Submit a two-page report describing your plans, how they were executed, and evaluated. Include any math representations or scientific data collection by the student that indicates progress. Pre-service teachers will observe constructivist math and science teachers for six hours. An organized visit to Newsome Park Elementary School will be arranged later in the semester. Summarize your observation/participation experience and describe (be specific) how you could apply ideas from your experience (an application of your experience) with your future students in your math journal, and be prepared to share on the eleventh class. (Objs. 4-7)
6. Demonstrate proficiency on mid-term and final examinations. Culminating project may be substituted for final exam by those students who earned B+ or better on the mid-term exam. (Objs. 1-7) (10% & 20%) An example of a final exam project is a math and/or science tool box or attendance at a professional two-day conference.
7. Class participation includes effort on shared assignments, empirical studies, 100% attendance, active involvement in class work and discussions and support for all presenters. See section on Learner Responsibilities. (Objs. 1-7) (10%)