MH513: Developing Mathematical Proficiency: Algebra (6-8) Dr. Numeroff-Martin Week 3: Seminar 3 The Importance of Patterns

 Identify a one-week unit plan from a credible online source. The unit must last for at least 5 consecutive teaching days and be able to stand alone as a mini-unit of instruction. The unit may cover any area of algebra covered in this course at any of the middle grade levels (grades 6-8) you desire. However, the unit must employ either manipulatives and/or technology tools. Algebraic Unit Analysis Due in Unit 6

Algebraic Unit Analysis  You will write an analysis describing the important algebraic thinking in the unit you selected for analysis. Include a discussion of pedagogical issues, based on research, of using the unit with middle grade mathematics students. References to NCTM Principles and Standards, course-reading materials, unit source material, and at least two (2) additional research-based articles are required. The paper must follow APA guidelines. Due in Unit 6

Algebraic Unit Analysis * Description of the algebraic unit (1-2 pages) * Include a reference to the source of the unit. * Describe the grade level and course where the unit could be used. * Describe the materials used (e.g., manipulatives, technology). * Describe the prerequisite skills and concepts that are essential for students to be successful in this algebraic unit. * Analysis of the algebra and algebraic thinking students may use in this unit (2-3 pages) * Describe the important algebraic thinking in this unit continued… Due in Unit 6

Algebraic Unit Analysis * What habits of mind could be fostered through this unit? * Reference the NCTM Principles and Standards as well as course reading material and research literature. * Discuss pedagogical issues of using this unit with students (2- 3 pages) * What is the role of the teacher? * What do you anticipate learners doing? * What questions should be posed to get students to think algebraically? * Reference the NCTM Principles and Standards as well as course reading material and research literature. Due in Unit 6

The Importance of Patterns Some people say that mathematics is the science of patterns. That's not a bad description. Not only do patterns take many forms over the range of school mathematics, they are also a unifying theme. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics recognizes the importance of patterns in its publication Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics (1989): Patterns abound in our world. The mathematics curriculum should help sensitize students to the patterns they meet every day and to the mathematical descriptions or models of these patterns and relationships. (pp. 100–101) This website explores logic patterns, number patterns and word patters:

The Importance of Patterns Explorations of patterns such as number and calculator patterns or the Fibonnacci sequence are not presented in typical textbooks except as enrichment or extras, especially in the upper grades. Is it reasonable to spend time in the fourth through eight grades on explorations of this sort? Take a position and defend it. -sequence.html

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