This course was specifically designed for future math teachers. It helps provide breadth and depth of background in functions and modeling, two important subjects in school mathematics. In addition, it provides experience in using a variety of technological tools in learning mathematics and experience learning mathematics in a collaborative, activity based learning environment. For more information about the course, see the Home Page for M 315C for Spring, 2001 or the Main Page for M 315C for Fall, 2001, or the Main Page for M 315C for Fall, 2002.

The Principles and Standards for School Mathematics say,

"Modeling involves identifying and selecting relevant features of a real-world situation, representing those features symbolically, analyzing and reasoning about the model and the characteristics of the situation, and considering the accuracy and limitations of the model." (p. 303; click here to read more.)

The mathematical representation involved might be a function, a graph, an equation, a table, or some combination of these, depending on the situation.

M 315C addresses the several portions of SBEC Standards II (Patterns and Algebra), IV (Probability and Statistics), V (Mathematical Processes), and VII (Mathematical Learning and Instruction). Click here to see details.

This course gives you experience and background in many of the TEKS for secondary mathematics, including some of the Basic Understandings for Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry, and some of the Knowledge and Skills for Algebra I, Algebra II, Precalculus, and Mathematical Modeling with Applications. Click here to see more details.

M 315C also gives you experience with some of the technology used in teaching AP Statistics and AP Calculus.

M 315C:

• gives you preparation to teach in accordance with the Technology Principle
• develops your understanding of many of the items in the 9 - 12 Algebra Standard
• helps develop the skills required to teach according to the 9 - 12 Problem Solving, Reasoning and Proof, Communication, Connections, and Representation Standards.

• M 315C can help you develop your understanding of several calculus concepts. Thus the ideal time to take M 315C is along with M 408C.
• M 315C gives you an introduction to statistical software, which can be helpful in M 358K
• M 315C gives an introduction to dynamic geometry software, shich can be helpful in M 333L.

• If possible take M 315C at the same time as calculus.
• Remember that one goal of M 315C is for you to experience learning in an activity based environment. This means that this class may be different from what you are used to. You may need to take a more active role in motivating yourself and otherwise taking initiative in learning.
• Take advantage of the discussion format of the class to practice your math communication skills.
• Take advantage of the discussion format of the class to listen to other students' ideas. This is a good opportunity to learn how other people learn and think.
• Take advantage of the range of grade level teaching interests in the class to become familiar with the math curriculum at grade levels different from the ones you plan to teach, so that you can teach in a manner that helps integrate math learning across the grades.