Text(s)/Materials:

Teacher developed and teacher produced.

Course Description:

Problem Solving is a one semester elective course where the emphasis is upon learning a variety of techniques for the solving of problems. The development of these techniques is facilitated through the solving of a variety of problems incorporating a wide range of mathematical ideas.

Major units of mathematical content deal with number theory, connections of algebra and geometry interspersed with applications of probability, selected topics of geometry including mass points, CevaÕs theorem, centroids, and PappusÕ theorem as it relates with volume. The last two units focus on mathematical structures using modular algebra and taxicab geometry.

The pre-requisite for Problem Solving is Mathematical Investigations 3 or consent of the instructor.

Teaching and Learning Methodology and Philosophy:

Throughout the semester there is a focus on the role and usage of patterns, discovery, and connections. Problem solving strategies and approaches utilize a constructivist approach in developing a student understanding of a variety of perspectives and for students to be able to extend the forms of problems.

Student Expectations:

Students are expected to be in class, be involved in problem solving work both as an individual and as a member of small, collaborative groups. Students are also expected to share their observations and results in group problem solving sessions. Students are expected to have worked on problems outside of class prior to coming to class.

Assessment Practices, Procedures, and Processes:

Student's grades for the quarter are determined through the assessment of take-home and in-class problem sets; both individual and group work assignments; quizzes and examinations; and projects as assigned.

Quarter grades are each worth 40 % of the final grade. The final examination is worth 20 % of the final grade. Since students are able to use notes, problem sets, and past assessments on the final examination, it is important and imperative that students maintain and keep a comprehensive and detailed notebook of work done throughout the semester.

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