Learning outcome

Knowledge

After completing the course the student will have acquired knowledge of:

• Teaching mathematics in years 5-10, with a particular emphasis on measurement, functions, statistics and probability.
• The role of language in learning mathematics.
• The importance of representational forms in mathematics, and the challenges associated with transitions between representational forms.
• The importance of arithmetic as a basic skill in all school subjects.
• How to express oneself verbally and in writing, the importance of reading, and using digital tools in mathematics.
• Various learning theories, and the relationship between approaches to learning and approaches to the subject.
• How to use various teaching aids, both digital and others, and the possibilities and limitations of such teaching aids.
• Knowledge of the historical development of mathematics, especially with regard to the concepts of functions and statistics.

Skills

After completing the course the student will be able to:

• Plan, implement and evaluate mathematics’ teaching for pupils in years 5-10 based on research, theory and practice.
• Demonstrate good practical skills in oral and written communication in mathematics, and expertise in teaching these skills to pupils.
• Work systematically on exploratory activities, reasoning and argumentation.
• Evaluate diagnostic tests and various methods of observation and assessment in order to adapt teaching to the different needs of pupils.
• Assess pupils’ work with regard to achieving aims, with and without grading, and justifying assessment.
• Identify and address learning difficulties in mathematics, and facilitate learning for pupils with different types of learning difficulties.

General skills

After completing the course the student will:

• Have gained an understanding of the importance of mathematics as a general education subject, and how it interacts with culture, philosophy and society.
• Have gained insight into the role of mathematics in other subjects and in society at large.
• Understand how mathematics is an important facet of education in a democratic society.
  

Course Description

The module will focus on the following topics:

Measurement

• Non-standardised units
• Length, area, volume
• Weight (mass)
• Time
• Measuring instruments
• Measurement uncertainty
• Currency

Functions:

• Linear functions
• Quadratic functions of varying degrees
• Simple rational functions
• Exponential functions
• ICT

Statistics:

• Data collection and presentation
• Interpreting graphs
• Central values and distribution
• ICT

Probability calculations:

• Probability models – law of large numbers, geometric models and uniform models
• Combinatorics
• Hypergeometric and binomial distribution
• ICT
  

Teaching and Learning Methods

Mathematics 1 Module 2 is taught over two semesters. The course includes varied teaching and learning methods such as lectures, individual exercises and group work. In addition, individual supervision will be in given in connection with the compulsory assignments. Mathematics 1 includes compulsory teaching practice according to national guidelines and the faculty’s teaching practice plan.

Assessment Methods

Students will submit a written assignment, which will be mainly related to the course topics, which must be approved before the student will be permitted to sit the examination.

Students will be given a final individual oral examination. They will draw a topic and then be given 30 minutes preparation time followed by a 30-minute examination. Students will be examined on the prepared topic and other parts of the curriculum. During the preparation time, stationery, calculators and the national curriculum LK06 will be available in the preparation room. The examination will be assessed according to a scale from A to F, where A is the highest grade and E the lowest passing grade. For more information please refer to the Telemark University College’s Examination Regulations.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean