Curriculum and Instruction Commons^™

A Hypnotist Teaches Math: The Effect Of Person Centered Math Support Classes On At-Risk Community College Students, Ron Bell

Humanistic Mathematics Network Journal

The same elements which make Ericksonian hypnosis a highly effective therapeutic tool are found to be at work in an algebra support class called Math Success Orientation. Interpersonal dynamics of Carl Rogers’ person centered approach to counseling are also part of the philosophy of the class which has a four semester track record of improving both grades and attitude in at risk, math avoidant community college students. The article relates the history of the course with illustrations of how the elements of Person Centered Mathematics operate in the classroom. An appendix demonstrates the effect of the class on student grades

The Critical Components Of A School-College Partnership Formed To Reduce The Enrollment In Remedial Courses In Mathematics Of Incoming Freshman, Marcella Lavoi Melby

Mathematics Graduate Theses

"A Research paper submitted to the Faculty of the Department of Mathematics in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Education, Mathematics."

Educating The Public About School Mathematics, Zalman Usiskin

Humanistic Mathematics Network Journal

No abstract provided.

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To Science, Jennifer A. Johnson

Graduate Research Papers

A literature-based language arts program provides meaningful experiences for children within the functions of language. Such programs can be extended across the curriculum to utilize the functions in other areas. These connections across the curriculum can be enhanced through the different genres of literature.

In this article, a literature base was integrated into the science area of the curriculum. A science unit on pumpkins was developed for first grade children with quality literature and related expressive activities that extended the children's literacy and their understanding of plants. Teacher-directed activities were presented along with learning centers.

Extending The Dimensions Of Science Through Poetry, Tracey L. Jones

Graduate Research Papers

The primary function of poetry is to bring enjoyment, but poetry can also foster concept development in an instructional program that extends literature across the curriculum. Because of its intense emotional quality and sharp images, it can assist in connecting children's prior knowledge with new concepts.

One of the goals of an integrated program for fifth grade was to integrate literature-based language arts with science. The connection of the language arts and science areas offered children opportunities to engage in the language processes within the functions of language offered in the science area. Through reading and writing poetry and conducting …

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To The Science Area : A Unit On Spring, Kelly Jones

Graduate Research Papers

A literature-based program emphasizes creating meaning through the language processes, thus leading to growth in thinking and language abilities. A print-rich learning environment supported by the different genres encourages involvement in the language process and contributes to the dimensions of a unit of study. When literature-based language arts are extended to the science area, such a program can extend children's knowledge of the world around them and nurture their curiosity.

A science unit on spring, extended through quality literature and many options for expressive activity, was presented to first grade children. This literature-based unit is shared.

Proses Penyelesaian Masalah Algebra Di Kalangan Pelajar Diploma Di Sebuah Institusi Pengajian Tinggi, Roselah Osman

Student Works (2000-2009)

The main objective of this study is to examine the problem solving process in learning Algebra, employed by the first semester students of diploma in engineering from an institute of higher learning. The research instrument comprised of five problem solving questions on basic Algebra. Six students were randomly selected as the research sample. The research data were the steps of written solutions shown by the sample. A modified scoring Rubric was used to analyse the process and the strategies used by the students to solve every problem solving question. The results of the study shows that some of the students …

Pelaksanaan Pentaksiran Amali Sains Berasaskan Sekolah Di Beberapa Buah Sekolah Menengah Daerah Hilir Perak, Alias Mingan

Student Works (2000-2009)

The purpose of this study is to investigate the implementation of the school based practical science assessment in several secondary schools in the Lower Perak District. The school based practical science assessment is carried out through the PEKA programme. Four aspects of the implementation of the PEKA programme was studied. The four aspects were (i) teachers' understanding of procedures in carrying out the PEKA programme after having attended relevant courses, (ii) teachers' ability in carrying out the PEKA programme, (iii) students' readiness to be assessed via PEKA, and (iv) factors which hinder the effectiveness of the implementation of the PEKA …

Kegunaan Pembelajaran Berasaskan Web Bagi Meningkatkan Pencapaian Dan Minat Pelajar Terhadap Topik Tenaga Nuklear, Ashfahani Zakaria

Student Works (2000-2009)

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Web-Based Learning (WBL) in improving students' achievement and interest in Nuclear Energy, which is one of the topics taught in KBSM Physics for Form 4. The WBL site used in the study was developed by the researcher based on Gagne's Nine Events of Instruction. The study was conducted using 30 Form 4 students who took Physics at one of the Smart Schools in Selangor Darul Ehsan. The selection of the students was based on their Physics results in the first semester examination. Two categories of students who had high …

Meeting The Needs Of Industry: Development Of A Microcontroller Course For Mechanical Engineers, W. G. Culbreth

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Research

No abstract provided.

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To Science, Brandee M. Alexander

Graduate Research Papers

Literature can link all areas of the curriculum. Extending a literature-based language arts program to the science area can provide a rich learning environment supported by many different genres of literature and related expressive activities that contribute to the dimensions of learning.

A science unit of study on the five senses, with special emphasis on touch, for kindergarten children, was expanded through literature experiences and related expressive activities. The literature presented offered much content on the senses and models of language to nurture the children's emerging literacy. During the one-week of study, learner enthusiasm and peer interaction for reading and …

Whales, Meg Gammon Schroeder

Graduate Research Papers

Children develop thinking-language abilities through involvement in the language processes. A print-rich environment representing the many genres of literature extended across the curriculum offers meaningful experiences with the language functions. Such literature experiences and related expressive activities can provide in-depth study in the content areas, expanding the understanding of units' concepts and related vocabulary.

A science unit on whales for kindergarten was enriched through literature experiences. The activities were presented through teacher-directed sessions and student-initiated activities available in the learning centers. The result of this extensive print-rich environment was in-depth study and enthusiastic responses on the part of the students.

Teacher Change In Math Education, Jamie Folkers

Graduate Research Papers

This literature review addresses the process teachers go through in order to change their instructional practices in math. The purpose of this review is to compare traditional math practices with practices being advocated by reform initiatives, to look at hurdles preventing teachers from adapting these reforms, and share suggestions for removing these hurdles to allow a smoother change process for teachers.

The sources referenced come from research studies involving classroom practices and professional development programs, journal articles related to the math reform movement, and books on the same topic. They date from 1989 to 2000.

The main recommendations are as …

Integrating Literature-Based Language Arts And Science : A Unit On Frogs For Kindergarten, Ruth Rysta

Graduate Research Papers

Classrooms providing a literature-base program allow children to engage in the language processes and present opportunities for children to create meaning by surrounding them with high-quality literature representative of different genres. Many of the language arts and science processes are related and can be integrated in themes or units to connect children's learning.

A unit on the life cycle of frogs offered kindergarten children a rich learning environment through quality literature and related expressive activities. The literature-base extended to science developed a sense of community, increased science knowledge and connected reading and writing to the science study.

An Overview Of The Nature Of Science For K-12 Science Teachers, William J. Soesbe Iii

Graduate Research Papers

Recent publicity has emphasized the concern of American citizens over student performance in the sciences. In an effort to evaluate one aspect of kindergarten through twelfth grade curricula that may have contributed to this situation, a comprehensive review of the literature concerning the nature of science was developed into a philosophical paper. The findings are synthesized into an analysis of the nature of science that provides a broad outline of the subject and related issues. The nature of science is a way of knowing that when balanced with scientific content and processes aids in the development of scientific literacy. Nonetheless, …

Computer Assisted Instruction: Successmaker™ Reading And Math, Melissa M. Haley

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this research was to determine whether the SuccessMaker™ reading and mathematics program being used at Collins-Maxwell Elementary School, Collins, Iowa, has increased the reading and mathematics scores. The elementary classroom teachers, the reading teacher, elementary principal, and two student key informants were all surveyed to obtain their opinions of the SuccessMaker™ program. Survey results indicated that while most of the teachers felt that this program had been beneficial to the students, they did not feel that computer-assisted instruction should replace classroom instruction.

Analisis Perbandingan Kandungan Kurikulum Matematik Matrikulasi Dengan Stpm, Abd Wahab Ibarahim

Student Works (2000-2009)

The comparative analysis research on the Mathematics curriculum for the matriculation program and Malaysian Higher School Certificate was conducted with the primary aim of determining whether content coverage and learning experiences provided in the Mathematics curriculum for the matriculation program is sufficient to prepare mathematically competent students for further studies at institutions of higher learning. The research methodology employed in this study was that of content analysis. Samples for the study were the Mathematics syllabus QMO 15, QS025, QS035 and Mathematics Modules QMO 15 and QS025 for the matriculation program, developed by the Ministry of Education Malaysia. These materials were …

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To Science, Jennifer Bruce

Graduate Research Papers

The development of a print-rich learning environment can facilitate the integration of the curriculum. A literature base representative of the different genres can contribute to the dimensions of learning. A literature-based unit on apples provided kindergarten children with quality literature experiences and many expressive activities that extended the students' understanding of the concept of apples. The unit was presented through teacher presentations and learning centers.

Senior Seminar: A Capstone Course In The Computer And Mathematical Sciences, Ken Oberhoff, Ron Barnes

Humanistic Mathematics Network Journal

This paper describes the evolution of a course developed to tie together many strands of activity encountered by students in the computer and mathematical sciences (CMS). The senior level course is required of all majors in our computer science, applied mathematics and statistics undergraduate degree programs. One of the primary purposes of the course is to refine writing and presentation skills needed for those who will later pursue individual research projects. Writing projects are organized around the theme of “Ethical Decision Making in the Computer and Mathematical Sciences”. Numerous case studies are investigated. Additional topics in the course include designing …

A Comparative Analysis Of Japanese And U.S. Teaching Styles Of Mathematics, Timothy Michael Wurdock

Mathematics Graduate Theses

This study examines the effects of different international teaching styles on the performance of junior high school students. Japanese students ranked higher than U.S. students on international tests. The whole-class method and open-ended problems are techniques frequently used in Japanese classrooms. These techniques will be incorporated into the author’s curriculum to determine their effectiveness in teaching mathematics. Two eighth grade classes will be studied. The author will teach the experimental group using the whole-class method. The control group will be taught using the American method.

“The Way Of The Scientist Deepens Beauty By Increasing Understanding”: Teaching Physics As An Aesthetic Form, Claudine Indigo Kavanagh

Dissertations and Theses

Educators have struggled to find an appropriate and efficacious method to engage students of science in their classrooms and lecture halls, This investigation presents a theoretical foundation for the use of aesthetic criteria when teaching physics in high school or undergraduate settings and suggests that this may be an effective learning tool. The relationship between science aesthetics and science literacy is pursued here. Included in this study are discussions of the applications of aesthetic judgement by theoretical physicists in the 20th century and and methods for bringing a dialogue concerning natural philosophy and beauty in the science classroom. While many …

Using Environmental News To Help Teach Mathematics, Barry Schiller

Humanistic Mathematics Network Journal

No abstract provided.

Operationalizing Interactive Learning Paradigms Through Cooperative Learning Activities 100% Of The Time In Math Classes, Ted Panitz

Humanistic Mathematics Network Journal

No abstract provided.

A Study Of Changes In Students' Science Attitudes, Awareness And Achievement Across Three Years As A Function Of The Level Of Implementation Of Interactive-Constructivist Teaching Strategies Promoted In A Local Systemic Reform Effort., James Shymansky, Larry Yore, John Anderson

Educator Preparation & Leadership Faculty Works

This study explored the cumulative effect of three years of exposure to teaching strategies being promoted in a local school district's systemic reform on elementary students' attitudes towards school science, awareness of science careers, and science achievement. The reform effort, referred to as the "Science: Parents, Activities, and Literature" (Science PALs) program focused on incorporating children's literature and parent partners using an interactive-constructivist epistemology as its base. Individual teachers were rated by the school district's science coordinator on their use of specific Science PALs strategies. Student attitudes and awareness were assessed with a paper and pencil survey developed for this …

Going Beyong The Third Grade Science Kit: An Integrated Thematic Approach, Michele D. Wiederspohn

All Graduate Projects

A project has been developed to aid in the design of a third grade science program and/or to be used as a supplement to any existing third grade science curriculum. The project has been organized into fourteen lesson plans. Each lesson plan includes an overview of the lesson, student learning objectives matched to the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements, activities, a list of required materials, an outline of instruction, and the name of a trade book to compliment the lesson. Current literature and research regarding the topic of integrated curriculum were explored.

Integrating Writing To Enhance Mathematical Skills At The Elementary Level, Kendra J. Kupp

All Graduate Projects

The recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Washington State Commission on Student Learning Essential Academic Requirements are addressed. The benefits of integrating mathematics and writing are studied. Integrated activities and materials for a first and second grade mathematics curriculum are developed. Recommendations for implementing the project are given.

The Mathematics Of Sound: Integrating Music Into A Math Curriculum, Shawn William Meacham

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop prototype lesson plans that connects and integrates musical and mathematical concepts at the 5th grade level. Both musical and mathematical concepts can be enhanced when studying the correlation between the two subjects. This project will provide lesson plans and activities using the Washington State Essential Academic Leaming Requirements as a basis for the concepts being taught. The goal of the project is to inspire teachers to use integration throughout the curriculum. An integrated curriculum develops and supports the coherence of ideas and concepts taught within our schools. By fostering our natural instinct …

Real World Mathematics Skills Within The Elementary Resource Classroom, Stacy Schilperoort

All Graduate Projects

A project, including activities, to assist elementary special education teachers in incorporating real world mathematics skills within their own resource classrooms was developed. A literature review of current research on the topic of real world math skills in schools around the country is also included as part of this project. The literature indicates that students with learning disabilities might benefit and become better prepared for the future as adult citizens by receiving an education that includes math activities that relate to the real world outside the classroom walls.

The Reasons Why Many African-American And Hispanic Women Do Not Choose Careers In Technology, Kathryn Elizabeth Guzman

Graduate Research Papers

There have been numerous statistics showing that minorities including women, African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, are least likely to choose careers in the science and technology field. Along with those studies have been possible reasons why they choose not to enter into the field. Reasons have ranged from lack of encouragement to people just telling them flat out that there is no possible way that they can succeed in the field.

This study found that African-American and Hispanic women do not choose careers in technology for many of the same reasons. As young children, some factors are the way teachers …

Kemahiran Berfikir Secara Kritis Dalam Pengajaran Sejarah : Perspektif Murid Tingkatan Empat Di Teluk Intan, Khairi Ariffin

Student Works (2000-2009)

This research aimed at finding out form four students in Teluk Intan perspective towards the teaching of History in schools. The researcher focused on the aspect of the teachers' teaching styles, elements that were emphasized in the history teachers' teaching and their approaches in encouraging and developing critical thinking skills among students. Another three aspects analyzed were the teachers' emphasis on Bloom Taxonomy levels, the methods and approaches practised by the History teachers and the types of question emphasized in the teaching of History. Another purpose of this research is to find out whether students' achievements in the History subject …