485-204 Learning Area: Mathematics 2 (Adv)

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

A minimum grade of H2A in 485-100 Learning Area: Mathematics 1.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject deepens students' own knowledge of mathematics from the space and measurement strands of the CFS and functional dependence from the Algebra strand, through challenging investigations. The major psychological theories of children's thinking and learning of mathematics will be studied, along with the methods by which research into this is conducted. Individual differences in learning primary school mathematics will be examined, along with teaching to address the needs of children experiencing difficulty and gifted students. Students will analyse teaching techniques and concrete and technological aids which develop different components of mathematical competence such as skills, concepts, practical ability and estimation. Current Victorian and national curriculum documents will be used. Students will design sequences of lessons related to selected learning outcomes.

Assessment

To gain a pass in this subject, students must satisfactorily complete a compulsory test of basic mathematics competence.

Two assignments equivalent in total to 2000 words, plus two 1.5-hour examinations (one mid-year and one end of year).

Prescribed Texts

• Board of Studies, Curriculum and Standards Framework. Carlton, Victoria: Board of Studies 1995.
• Booker G et al, Teaching Primary Mathematics (2nd ed). Addison Wesley Longman 1997.