Description of Mathematics

MTHT 491: Topics in Teaching
Elementary/Junior High
School Mathematics: Number Theory for
Middle School Teachers.
4 graduate credit hours.
This course is about number theory and the
foundations of arithmetic . We will investigate the
structure of different number systems , and focus our
attention on properties of the integers and the rational
numbers (fractions). We will investigate prime
numbers, factoring , divisibility, greatest common
divisors and least common multiples , modular
arithmetic, and other topics.
Instructor: Prof. John M. Masley
Classes meet: Wednesdays, January 16 – May 7,
2008, 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., except March 19 and
April 16.
Location: UIC, Room and Building TBA
ISBE Requirement Area: Algebra and Number or
general content

MTHT 550: Concepts and Methods in
Elementary School Mathematics II.
4 graduate credit hours.
In this course we examine, in greater depth, the
mathematics content of the Middle School. A great
focus will be placed on how we can facilitate the
learning of these concepts. We will present a variety
of activities, problems and puzzles to enhance
learning, to help students acquire the concepts, to
develop computational skills as well as a deeper
understanding. We will deal with such topics as
measurement, including area and volume, directed
numbers, fractions and rational numbers, decimal
numbers – repeating and non-repeating and explore
some topics like combinatorics and number theory.
Instructor: Prof. A. I. Weinzweig
Classes meet: Tuesdays, January 15 – May 6, 2008,
4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., except March 18.
Location: UIC, Science and Engineering South
Building (SEO) , Room 600
ISBE Requirement Area: Methods

MTHT 591: Topics in Teaching
Elementary/Junior High
School Mathematics: Algebra Initiative II.
4 graduate credit hours.
The course builds on the foundation of the first course
in the Algebra Initiative sequence (MTHT 465) to
deepen and extend teachers' knowledge of algebra
and the teaching of algebra. Topics included are
solving quadratic equations, introduction to higher
order polynomials , graphing parabolas, and geometric
sequences and series. Problem solving, building
connections between algebra and arithmetic
and geometry, and developing strategies for
incorporating algebraic processes and content into
mathematics instruction at different grade levels are
integral to the course. Examining student work and
addressing student misconceptions in algebra will
also be part of the course. Course will include review
of course topics included on CPS Algebra Qualifying
Exam.
Instructor: Prof. Regeta Slaughter
Classes meet: Thursdays, January 17 – May 8, 2008,
4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., except March 20 and April 17
Location: Medill, Room TBA
ISBE Requirement Area: Algebra and Number or
general content

EPSY 446: Characteristics of Early
Adolescence. 3 graduate credit hours.
Physiological, social, emotional and cognitive
development of early adolescence. The relationship
between these developmental characteristics and
success in the middle grades.
Instructor: Amy Weaver
Classes meet: Mondays, January 28 – May 5, 2008,
4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., except for February 18, March
3 and March 17. There will be an additional class
meeting the week of May 5.
Location: Medill, Room TBA
ISBE Requirement Area: Education

CIE 484: Curriculum and Instruction in
the Middle School.
3 graduate credit hours.
Philosophy, curriculum, and instructional methods for
teaching middle grade students (grades five through
eight). Content area reading is included.
Instructor: Bill Giannetos
Classes meet: Tuesdays, January 15– May 6, 2008,
4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., except for February 12 and
March 18.
Location: Medill, Room TBA
ISBE Requirement Area: Education