Procedural Knowledge: These questions will make up a small but useful component of your understanding

The goal of every mathematics class should be to explore the abstract nature of mathematics through a variety of representations.  The expectation is that your understanding is centered on making connections between your own ideas and the viable arguments of others. 

 

Your mastery of mathematical topics will be evaluated on the basis of conceptual, procedural and factual knowledge.  You will be asked to construct and critique models which summarize meaningful applications. 

While traditionally these "text book style" questions might have been the extent of measuring your mastery of mathematics, in this class practicing procedural knowledge is a necessary component but it will not be our only standard for success. During class time we will seek to justify the procedures explored in these sections.  Will we use observation, experimentation, reading, writing and discussion to construct a conceptual understanding of mathematics.  We will take advantage of our collabortive classroom setting to explore the deeper implications of the ideas we set out to master. When you leave this collaborative setting you should reflect on your findings and practice these procedural elements. 

"If you find yourself struggling to remember a procedure that you've used in the past, could the problem be that you are reaching for factual knowledge rather than reconstructing your understanding through conceptual knowledge?  Focus on 'why' to avoid forgeting 'how'. . ."