University of Northern Iowa Mathematics Department Announces A Master of Arts Degree in Mathematics for the Middle Grades Take ownership of change in your classroom! Receive support in implementing new teaching practices! Utilize your classroom as a learning laboratory! Learn mathematics in the context of teaching it! Connect mathematics, teaching, curriculum and current issues! Learn about innovative approaches and materials! Become a leader in mathematics reform! A Master of Arts Degree in Mathematics for the Middle Grades The program is cohesive and coordinated. The program is built around major ideas, such as teaching and learning mathematics, implementing programs, understanding school mathematics goals and providing leadership in bringing about change. The program is offered through a coordinated schedule of courses over a period of 3 summer sessions and 2 academic years. The program is linked to teachers' continued development as teachers of mathematics. This program incorporates a dynamic relationship between theory and practice. It is situated in the world of schools and children. It focuses on the development of teachers as: reflective practitioners; lifelong students of teaching; professionals with a growing vision; individuals who understand, value, and enjoy math; and leaders in mathematics education. The program will have a collegial, supportive atmosphere. A new group of teachers starts each summer and remains together throughout the program. Faculty members provide support for small groups of teachers by meeting with them, visiting their classrooms and providing guidance and support. The program treats mathematics in a contemporary, integrated and appropriate way. Strong school programs must present a rich, contemporary view of mathematics that emphasizes its powerful and unifying conceptual ideas. Teachers will have the opportunity to rethink, reorganize, integrate and broaden their knowledge of mathematics. The treatment of mathematics throughout the program is consistent with the mathematical background of middle grades teachers. The program prepares teachers to become leaders. Throughout the program there is an ongoing emphasis on providing leadership to others in the area of school mathematics programs. Participants will become knowledgeable about working with other teachers and parents. Sample quotes from Summer 1994 I'm really pleased with the program; it will certainly impact my classes! I can't say enough -- without it I can't imagine where I'd be next year. The summer was GREAT! It is helpful and supportive of the changes I want to make in my classroom. Additional Application and Program Information Teachers interested in entering the program in the summer of 1995 may receive application materials by calling the UNI Mathematics Department at (319) 273-2631 after 1 December 1994. Teachers not already admitted to the UNI Graduate College, should ask for applications forms for that as well. The Master of Arts degree is granted upon completing at least 32 semester hours and meeting requirements of the Graduate College. Participants will be selected on the basis of their commitment to change, involvement in professional growth opportunities and administrative support for leadership opportunities within the school district. A balance will be sought with respect to grade level, teaching experience, type of school and type of students. Teachers will be asked to make a commitment to the total program. External funding for the 1995 Summer Institute has been obtained. It will meet for 5 weeks beginning 12 June 1995. Participants will also be involved in activities to promote change in their classrooms during the school year. A stipend for participants is sufficient to cover the costs of tuition for the Summer 1995 Institute. Program Schedule Summer 1: ¥ New Developments in Middle Grades Mathematics ¥ Teaching Rational Numbers ¥ Mathematical Problem Solving in the Middle Grades Fall Semester 1: ¥ Issues & Problems in Teaching Mathematics in the Middle Grades ¥ Studies in Implementing Change in Teaching Mathematics I Spring Semester 1: ¥ Mathematics for the Middle Grades Teacher I ¥ Studies in Implementing Change in Teaching Mathematics II Summer 2: ¥ Teaching Algebra in the Middle Grades ¥ Contemporary Mathematics Curricula ¥ Technology in Middle Grades Mathematics Fall Semester 2: ¥ Mathematics for the Middle Grades Teacher II Spring Semester 2: ¥ Seminar in Mathematics Education Summer 3: ¥ Mathematics Literacy in an Information Age ¥ Selected Topics in Mathematics for the Middle Grades ¥ Education Elective --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- Yes, I am interested in the UNI Graduate Program for Teaching Mathematics in the Middle Grades. Please keep me informed about the plans for the 1995 Summer Institute and admission to the program. Return this form to Dr. Ed Rathmell, Mathematics Department, UNI, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0506. You may also request the same information by FAX (319-273-2546) or e-mail (rathmell@math.uni.edu). Name ________________________________ Grade Level _______ School _____________________ District ______________________ Home Address ______________________________________________ Home Phone ________________ School Phone _________________