Unit Plans

Unit Lesson Description Lessons not in a Unit Circumference of the Earth This lesson focuses on using the estimation of the circumference of the earth to reinforce basic geometric properties of circles and parallel lines. The lesson continues with using Eratosthenes method to estimate the circumference of the earth. Introduction to Negative Numbers This lesson introduces the student to negative numbers using the concepts of magnitude and direction in both visual and kinesthetic frameworks. Adding And Subtracting Negative Numbers This lesson helps the student to understand the meaning of adding and subtracting positive and negative numbers. The Pythagorean Theorem This lesson plan teaches the students to discover and write proofs in the context of the Pythagorean Theorem. The Chinese proof of the Pythagorean Theorem is used, as it is more accessible to children in grades 7-12. Introduction and Review for Intermediate Algebra This unit is intended to review foundational concepts for an Intermediate Algebra class. This unit is designed for 10th grade intermediate algebra students. Visualizing in Mathematics This lesson reintroduces the various methods of visualizing in mathematics. It introduces the student to 3-D visualizations. Adding and Subtracting Positive and Negative Numbers This lesson reviews adding and subtracting positive and negative numbers. Properties of Real Numbers This lesson reviews the properties of real numbers, including associative, commutative, distributive, and absolute value. Modeling With Algebra The unit starts with the concept of using math to model real-world situations, then explores the use of functions, matrices, and simulations as modeling tools. This unit is designed for 10th grade intermediate algebra students. Introduction to Geometry This unit is an introduction to Geometry with and emphasis on mathematical reasoning and proof. Properties of Lines and Points This lesson plan teaches the properties of lines and points within the discipline of Geometry. It focuses on mathematical reasoning and introduces the students to the rigors of proof. Math Logic This unit is an introduction to math logic starting with concepts students can understand. Fractals A Fractals Unit for Elementary and Middle School Students by Cynthia Lanius, Dept of Mathematics, Rice University. Spy Science This unit is intended as an after-school enrichment program for students in the 4th to 6th grades. It uses the subject of spying to explore human behavior, encryption, chemistry, optics, audition, observation, and using the Internet as a resource. Introduction to Spy Science This lesson is intended to frame the course and motivate the students to complete the unit. It answers such questions as, "What will we do?", "Is this going to be fun?", and "Can I really use the things I learn here?" Introduction to Encryption This lesson is a gentle introduction to encryption. It starts with the concept of 'secret code', accessible to most preteens, and uses it to introduce the vocabulary and basic concepts of encryption.

Lesson Models

Model Description Cause and Effect This instructional model is useful in areas where learners may confuse sequence or association with cause and effect. For example, if Jill is mean to Hillary, one might assume that Jill is the cause of the problem. Then, upon learning that Hillary told Jill's boyfriend a lie in order to break them up, one might assume that Hillary is cause of the problem. Concept Attainment The concept attainment instructional model is used to help students develop concepts and definitions. Concept Development The concept development instructional model is used to help students further develop a concept to which they have been exposed. Creative Memorization When faced with memorizing mathematical equations such as logab = c ↔ ac = b most students resort to memorization by repetition, if the attempt the task at all. This model gives students more advanced memorization tools in a format that all students can excel, not just those who are good at math. Direct Instruction The direct instructional model is used to introduce basic new skill or concepts. Link Memorization Model The link memorization model is used to memorize lists of facts. Motivational Most students are not intrinsically motivated to study. Teachers and parents must supply adequate extrinsic motivation until the student becomes intrinsically motivated. It answers such questions as, "Why is this class required anyway?", "Will there be a lot of homework?", and "What do I have to do to, get an 'A'?" Robert Gagné's Nine Steps of Instruction Robert Gagné's Nine Steps of Instruction is a generalized model of instructional development. Most other models incorporate essential features of Gagné's model while moving the instruction towards more specific goals than those envisioned by Gagné's model. Suchman Inquiry Model The Suchman Inquiry Model teaches students to use the scientific inquiry model in a classroom setting. Think, Pair, Share Model The Think, Pair, Share Model allows the students to explore a subject and learn from each other. It results in increased participation and greater memory retention. It improves learner confidence. See also Developing Instruction or Instructional Design Don Clark, May 29, 2000, This page presents five theories for developing instruction.

Lecture Notes

Subject Description Introduction to Linear Systems Day 1 Linear Systems and Their Solutions

Thoughts on Teaching

Date Description 2006 Semester 1 Learnings for the first semester 2006.