485-407 Learning Area:Mathematics 4 (Adv)

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

485-204 Learning Area: Mathematics 2 (Adv)

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject deals with primary school mathematics programs and current issues in mathematics education. Students will learn to critically evaluate mathematics programs, materials and teaching methods. Alternative approaches to the teaching of mathematics across a primary school, such as the integrated curriculum, thematic instruction, problem-based instruction and other current curricular models will be discussed and compared. A range of methods of assessment and reporting will be examined. Contemporary national and international curriculum documents will provide a focus for the discussion of primary mathematics and associated issues. Important issues for the design of the school curriculum, such as fundamental goals of school mathematics, equity issues, the changing nature of appropriate curriculum content, teaching and learning styles will be examined in the context of a study of international and statewide comparisons of mathematical achievement. Students will develop a mathematics program for use in primary mathematics classrooms.

Assessment

One 2-hour examination (40%) and written assignments equivalent in total to 2000 words (60%).

Hurdle requirement: Satisfactory completion of weekly tasks and seminar preparation.

Prescribed Texts

• Board of Studies, Curriculum and Standards Framework. Deparment of Education, Carlton 1995.