MATH 1901: Principles of Mathematics for Teachers
This course is primarily for students who wish to enter an Elementary Teaching program. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding of elementary mathematical methods and ideas. Topics include numbers, operations, proportional reasoning, number theory, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, and probability.
Learning outcomes
- Explain how and why particular mathematical processes, structures, and entities work.
- Identify, create and use mathematical representations to model and interpret ideas and concepts and solve problems.
- Identify errors and misconceptions in calculations and reasoning.
- Develop and demonstrate critical thinking skills and assess arguments for rigour and reasonableness.
- Use deductive, inductive, and heuristic reasoning to explain solution processes.
- Find and explain connections between various mathematical topics and between mathematics and other application areas.
- Develop and demonstrate “mathematical common sense” through mental calculation, estimation, and number sense.
- Use mathematical language, notation, and terminology correctly and consistently.
- Develop, identify, and provide solutions for problems involving various types of models and operations.
- Integrate Indigenous Peoples viewpoints with mathematical concepts.
- Carry out basic mathematical procedures to show how mathematics works.
- Describe how mathematics is used to solve problems in science and daily life.
- Become a more confident and independent problem solver.
- Explain mathematical operations and concepts using a variety of models and methods.
- Create and interpret figures, pictures, and diagrams to illustrate mathematical processes, structures, and entities.
- Connect problem-solving tasks to cultural practices and outlooks of Indigenous Peoples, the local community, and other cultures.
- Appreciate mathematics as an essential tool for understanding and enhancing the human experience and demonstrate a willingness to tackle challenging problems.
- Describe ways in which mathematical notation and vocabulary make communication easier.
- Appreciate the role of discussion in learning mathematics.
- Demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively and to objectively assess peer work.
Course topics
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Module 1: Number and Operations
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Module 2: Proportional Reasoning and Number Theory
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Module 3: Algebra
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Module 4: Geometry and Measurement
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Module 5: Data Analysis and Probability
Required text and materials
Students require the following e-textbook, which can be purchased directly from the TRU bookstore site at: https://thebookstore.tru.ca/site_digital.asp
- Beckmann, S. (2022). MyLab Math with Pearson eText Access Code for Mathematics for
Elementary and Middle School Teachers with Activities (6th ed.). New York, N.Y.: Pearson.
Type: E-Textbook. ISBN: 9780136937654
Assessments
Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.
To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the course overall and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.
| Quizzes | 14% |
| Instructional Videos | 7% |
| Discussions | 7% |
| Assignment 1: Number and Operations | 4% |
| Assignment 2: Proportional Reasoning and Number Theory | 3% |
| Assignment 3: Algebra | 3% |
| Assignment 4: Geometry and Measurement | 4% |
| Assignment 5: Data Analysis | 3% |
| Midterm | 15% |
| Final Exam (mandatory) | 40% |
| Total | 100% |
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
