Course Descriptions

Mathematics Content-Focused Pedagogy Courses 

CI 511 Examining Base Ten Numeration and Operations (3 cr.)
Explore the base ten structure of the number system and how that structure is used in multi-digit computation. Investigate how basic concepts of whole numbers reappear when working with decimals. Student thinking is at the center of this course through examination of student work and students at work. 

CI 512 Examining Operations with Whole Numbers and Fractions (3 cr.)
Examine the actions and situations modeled by the four basic operations.  Begin with a view of how counting moves toward solving whole number problems and then how whole number operations extend to the context of fractions. Student thinking is at the center of this course through examination of student work.

CI 513 Enhancing Algebraic Thinking: Generalizations about Operations (3 cr.)
Examine generalizations at the heart of studying operations in the elementary grades. Express generalizations in common language and algebraically, develop representation-based arguments, study what it means to prove, and extend generalizations from whole numbers to integers. Student thinking is at the center of this course through examination of student work.

CI 514 Enhancing Algebraic Thinking: Patterns and Functions (3 cr.)
Discover how patterns lead to functions, learn to read tables and graphs to interpret change, and use algebraic notation to write rules. With emphasis on linear functions, explore nonlinear functions, examine how function features are seen in graphs, tables, or rules. Student thinking is at the center of this course.

CI 515 Developing Geometric Thinking and Concepts (3 cr.)
Examine aspects of two- and three-dimensional shapes, develop geometric vocabulary, and explore both definitions and properties of geometric objects. Study angle, similarity, congruence, and the relationships between 3-D objects and their 2-D representations.  Student thinking is at the center of this course through examination of student work.

CI 516 Exploring Measurement Concepts (3 cr.)
Examine different attributes of size, develop facility in composing and decomposing shapes, and apply these skills to make sense of area and volume formulas. Explore conceptual issues of length, area, and volume, as well as inter-relationships. Student thinking is at the center of this course through examination of student work.

CI 517 Developing Concepts of Data Analysis: Representing and Modeling with Data 

(3 cr.)
Focus attention on data representation, analysis, and how students’ ideas develop over time. Work with collection, representation, and interpretation of data. Learn what various graphs and statistical measures show about data, study how to summarize data when comparing groups, and consider whether data provide insight into questions inspiring data collection. 

CI 540 Modeling with and Using Representations in Mathematics (3 cr.)

Examine the role of modeling and representing in mathematics learning and teaching. Investigate ways in which teachers and students use representations and translations across representations in support of mathematics teaching and learning. Finally, consider how using representations support equitable teaching.

CI 541 Reasoning and Proving Across Mathematics (3 cr.)

Examine the role of reasoning and proving across the mathematical domains. Investigate student conceptions of proof and the appropriate curriculum treatment of topics related to conjecturing, justifying, and generalizing. Design instructional and assessment tasks that elicit student thinking and formulate ways to move student thinking forward in mathematically productive ways.

Advanced Mathematics Methods & Teacher Leadership Focused Courses 

CI 518 Mathematics Teacher Leadership: Implementing Effective and Equitable Mathematics Teaching Practices (3 cr.)
Examine research-informed effective and equitable mathematics teaching practices, strategies for their implementation, and the ways they show up in curriculum materials. Deconstruct instructional practice and consider the ways learning environments and decisions about tasks, tools, and talk influence engagement, understanding, and identity development. Includes 30-hour practicum.

CI 519 Mathematics Teacher Leadership: Supporting Mathematics Collegial Learning and School Improvement  (3 cr.)
Develop an understanding of the role of and the challenges faced by mathematics instructional leaders. Examine leadership practice and consider the varied ways leaders work–advocate, collaborator, co-teacher, mentor, facilitator–each contributing to collegial learning and ongoing improvement in the school mathematics program. Includes 30-hour practicum.

CI 521 Mathematics Teacher Leadership: Responsive Mathematics Instruction and Assessment (3 cr.) 

Examine assets-based approaches to instruction and assessment that center on student thinking and reasoning. Consider ways responsive mathematics pedagogies attend to the strengths and needs of diverse learners. Analyze assessment practice and consider what it means to assess and provide feedback that activates students as owners of their learning. Includes 30-hour practicum.