Graduate Course Description

Overview

This course provides middle school teachers with ongoing professional development that will build on and expand current knowledge and understanding middle school geometry. Throughout this course participants will link the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Principles and Standards for teaching Geometry to middle school students to their individual state standards so that they can delve more intentionally into geometric content and processes. Investigating strategies for developing mathematical literacy and fostering logical thinking will set the stage for future learning. In addition, participants will explore, discuss, and apply research-based teaching strategies for teaching geometry and mathematics in all modules.

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Target Audience: All Middle School educators; Prerequisite: entry-level technology skills.
Time Requirement: 6-8 hours per week
Course Format: Eight-week, facilitator-led with weekly assignments, and 24/7 online access
An optional manipulative kit may be purchased from The Math Learning Center (1-800-575-8130.) The kit is available to participants who may not have access to materials needed for the course.
Cat # PLSGK, Description: PLS Geometry Kit Manipulatives, Price: $10.00. ($5 shipping for orders under $30) The kit includes: 1 small mirror (rigid - 3x4), 1 protractor (360 degree), 1 compass, 1 sheet Paper Pattern Blocks, 100 sheets of Patty Paper.

Graduate Credit: 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours

Technology Requirements
In addition to a computer, Internet connection (high-speed preferable), and a working email account, PLS courses have the following technical requirements:

• Preferred Operating Systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Mac OS X
• Preferred Browsers: For an optimal experience use Internet Explorer 7 or 8 (PC), or Mozilla Firefox 3 (PC or Mac).
  Updated versions of Web browsers are free from the following links:
  Internet Explorer , Firefox
• Required Software: Microsoft Word, google tools: mail, docs, presentations (free use), and Wikispaces account
• Required Web Browser Plug-In: Adobe® Acrobat® or Adobe® Reader™ This plug-in is required to view any of the PDFs within a course. Adobe® Reader™ may be downloaded for free using the following link: Adobe

Please note:

• If using Internet Explorer 6.0, security settings must be set to accept cookies.
• If using Internet Explorer 7 or 8, please add pls.rsmart.com to your list of trusted Web sites by going to: Tools > Internet Options > Privacy tab > Sites

The following applications will be used by the participants. These are freeware programs available via the Web or are free to download. Course instructions will include directions on how to install or use these applications.

• Google tools: mail, docs, presentations (free use)
• Wikispaces account