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2008-2009 Mathematics and Science Workshops

For High School Teachers


Overview:

Would you like to:
- Better prepare your students for NJ's statewide assessments?
- Engage your students in the lessons that you teach?
- Incorporate standards-based hands-on activities that motivate your students?
- Relate what you are doing in the classroom to "real world" applications?

THE RUTGERS CENTER FOR MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, AND COMPUTER EDUCATION (NJ DOE provider # 2) is offering a broad range of highly interactive one-day professional development workshops that are applicable to all curricula taught by grades 9-12 teachers of mathematics or science. All workshops are based on the NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards in mathematics and science as they are reflected in the HSPA. All of these workshops will help you better prepare students for the statewide assessments and provide the resources and knowledge that you need to generate new and exciting standards-based lessons.

All workshops are full-day workshops at which participants will earn six (6) professional development hours. All workshops will take place at Rutgers University-New Brunswick (unless otherwise noted). Participants may attend single or multiple workshops in any order. Discounts are available for multiple registrations on a single purchase order.

Although some workshops address overlapping issues, teachers who attend multiple workshops will benefit from experiencing the different approaches the workshop leaders have to helping students meet the challenges of the HSPA. Our instructors are among the most experienced and respected workshop leaders in the state. The workshop topics are based on feedback and recommendations from NJ teachers and administrators.

You will leave these workshops with valuable tools to motivate your students, stimulate their curiosity, and promote a more positive attitude towards mathematics and science.

Workshop Descriptions:

  • NEW! Empowering Students Who Ask, “When Are We Ever Going to Use This Math?”

    Date: May 6, 2008 (Code: HSPA 050608)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Robin Schwartz

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    When Math is presented as a life skill that broadens career choice and inspires critical thinking, students embrace the learning of reasoning and problem-solving skills while building confidence and persistence. While many students will not major in science or engineering in college, all students benefit from the challenge and discipline of Math. This positive attitude can help teachers, administrators and students to meet the challenges of ‘teaching to the test’ by viewing it as an opportunity to address common errors and misunderstandings without formally reviewing. In fact, the comparison of multiple choice answers can help students to “think on their feet” while increasing accuracy, logic and frustration tolerance skills – assets in high school, college and the workplace. Worksheets will cover common secondary content incorporating HSPA and SAT content (including algebra, geometry, trig and precalc) and will use multiple representations and technology to appeal to diverse learning styles creating a path to success for all.

  • NEW! Geometer’s Sketchpad is Not Just for Geometry!

    Date: May 7, 2008 (Code: HSPA 050708)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter:

    In this completely hands-on lab course, you will learn how to delight your students with streamlined lessons in full color. You will learn to construct all geometric shapes, show proofs of theorems (without actually having to write a proof!), and plot any kind of algebraic function or graph. Topics range from basic (polygons, circles, midpoints) to mid-level (altitudes, angle bisectors, polynomial functions) to advanced (graphing conic sections, tangents and asymptotes). Take-home materials will be provided. Beginners welcome!

  • Engaging and Motivating All of Your Students with Discrete Mathematics

    Date: May 19, 2008 (Code: HSPA 051908)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter:

    This workshop will provide an overview of the discrete mathematics expectations in the standards for middle and high school students, and will focus on some of the key ideas and applications of discrete mathematics that are referred to in Standard 4. In the morning, we will focus on vertex-edge graphs and their applications, and in the afternoon, we will discuss strategies for counting (including their use in probability).

  • Crash Course in Discrete Mathematics

    Date: July 28-31, 2008 (Code: CRASH-08)
    Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (4 days)
    Presenters: Joseph G. Rosenstein, L. Charles Biehl
    **Fee: $795, including breakfast & lunch** (Fee with 3 nights lodging, $950)

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    Discrete mathematics is an increasingly used area of mathematics with many practical and relevant applications. Attend this 4-day course and you will get a taste of what discrete mathematics is all about, and learn how you can use these contemporary topics in your classroom. For more information, please see our website -- http://dimacs.rutgers.edu/lp/crash-course/

  • Institutes for New Teachers of Mathematics and Science

    Date: August 4-8, 2008 (Code: NTI-08)
    Time: 8:30 am – 8:30 pm (Mon-Thurs); 8:30 am – 2:00 pm (Fri. Aug. 8)
    Instructional Coordinators: Paul Lawrence and Mary Oates (Mathematics)
                                           Kate Napolitano (Science)
    **Fee: $1,795, including all materials, meals, and 4 nights lodging**
    (Fee without lodging, $1,617)

    Audience: Grade 6-12 Mathematics or Science Teachers, with 0-3 years of prior teaching experience

    Week-long, content-based induction programs designed to better prepare relatively new teachers of mathematics or science for their teaching assignments in the coming year and give them a great start in their teaching careers. Alternate route candidates are welcomed! For more information, please see our website -- http://dimacs.rutgers.edu/nti/

  • Strategies to Prepare Special Education Students for the Math HSPA

    Dates: November 12, 2008 (Code: HS111208)
               February 13, 2009 (Code: HS021309)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Karen Egan

    Audience: Grade 8-12 Mathematics Teachers, High School Special Education Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    Special education teachers sometimes are faced with enormous challenges when it comes to preparing their special needs students for the mathematics portion of the HSPA. This workshop presents ideas to help your students boost their performance on the HSPA. Participants will learn strategies to make students comfortable with the vocabulary on the tests and increase their critical thinking skills through the use of open-ended questions. Activities will include differentiated instruction, cooperative games, and using a variety of manipulatives. Participants will take home a packet of all the workshop’s activities, as well as sample lessons that can be implemented immediately in their own classrooms.

  • Math and Technology – Perfect Together

    Date: December 1, 2008 (Code: HS120108)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: June Kelley

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Mathematics Teachers, Special Education Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    Integrate the math and technology standards to facilitate a deeper understanding in all areas of mathematics. This workshop will focus on a hands-on, project-based approach to designing focused lessons, and will also look at internet sites that help lead to greater achievement in mathematics and better communication with students. This workshop is geared toward grade 9-12 teachers. A similar workshop for grade 4-8 teachers is offered on November 13.

  • NEW! Geometer’s Sketchpad from Soup to Nuts

    Date: December 2, 2008 (Code: HS120208)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Anita Schuloff

    Audience: Grade 6-12 Mathematics Teachers, Pre-Service Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    Are your students bored with "chalk 'n talk"? Are you? Are your students more computer savvy than you are? Are you a middle school or high school teacher or a new teacher just starting out? Does your school have fancy equipment such as projectors, SmartboardsTM and laptops, etc. that are going to waste because no one is using them? If you can answer yes to any or all of these questions then this workshop is for you. We will cover all the basic commands and keystrokes needed to teach not only introductory geometry but beginning and intermediate algebra and beyond. This workshop will take place in a computer lab so that you will start using this powerful program right away. Bring a CD or flash drive to download the files you create. You will come away with enough knowledge to start using Geometer’s Sketchpad as soon as you get back to school.

  • NEW! Geometry Using Cabri Jr. and the TI-84 Plus

    Date: December 3, 2008 (Code: HS120308)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Fred Decovsky

    Audience: Teachers of Geometry and Mathematics Teachers Grade 7-12

    This workshop introduces the basics of Cabri Jr. and ways of incorporating graphing technology into your geometry lessons to enrich instruction and extend your students' comprehension. Enhance the teaching and learning of geometry. Let your students develop a sense of adventure with geometry through conjecturing and experimenting. Participants will use Cabri Jr. to dynamically explore many geometric concepts. Topics, such as Intersecting Lines, Angles and Transversals, Translations, Reflections, Rotations, Dilations, Transformations, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Area Relationships and Circles will be investigated.

  • NEW! Visual Mathematics with Geometer Sketchpad

    Date: December 5, 2008 (Code: HS120508)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Iftikhar Husain

    Audience: Grade 8-12 Mathematics Teachers, High School Special Education Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    Integrate technology into mathematics as a visual learning tool to enhance, expand and embrace the existing curriculum. Participants will receive an activity CD to be able to appreciate the power of Geometer’s Sketchpad. The presenter will share some ready-for-the-classroom activities for Basic Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Precalculus, and Trigonometry. Learn how to delight all types of learners with animation. Beginners are welcome!

  • NEW! Chaos (and Fractals) in the Classroom

    Date: December 8, 2008 (Code: HS120808)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Kevin Merges

    Audience: Grade 6-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors, Teachers in Gifted and Talented Programs

    This workshop will be an introduction to Fractal Geometry and Chaos Theory. Fractal Geometry is the geometry of nature and we will explore the variety of ways this topic can be seen in the everyday life of students and teachers. Several projects will be demonstrated that can be applied in almost every math classroom. Some of the projects offered have been used in classes as early as Kindergarten, but much of the material will be for Geometry classes and higher. Some of the TI-83 and 84 programs offered could be applied to the Precalculus and level and beyond. Connections will be made for a variety of cross-curricular projects. These topics are interesting and not nearly as complex as they sound. Students can grasp the basic patterns at the elementary school level. A gifted and talented program would be an excellent place to implement these concepts.

  • Beginner’s Guide to Teaching AP Calculus

    Date: December 9, 2008 (Code: HS120908)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Liz Marquez

    Audience: Grade 11-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    This workshop will provide advice, ideas, and instructional strategies to beginning AP Calculus teachers. Topics to be covered include: appropriate use of technology, dealing with students’ algebraic misconceptions, the unifying themes of calculus, and effective test preparation.

  • NEW! Teaching the Big Ideas of Algebra

    Date: January 12, 2009 (Code: HS011209)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Liz Marquez

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Algebra Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    This workshop explores how to teach and assess the big ideas of algebra. Emphasis will be on content knowledge, questioning techniques, formative assessment, and technology in teaching algebra. In addition, techniques that will get students begging for more will be shared.

  • Helping ALL Students Achieve – How to Integrate Discrete Mathematics into the 9-12 Curriculum

    Date: January 23, 2009 (Code: HS012309)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Brother Patrick Carney

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Mathematics Teachers, High School Special Education Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    What do state proficiency exams, homeland security, and the TV show NUMB3RS have in common? Among other things, they all use discrete mathematics. This program will introduce and explain how you can incorporate these discrete math concepts into the 9-12 mathematics curriculum which you already teach as well as a great beginning for starting up a stand-alone discrete mathematics course. Activities will include exciting hands-on activities with real-world connections. Materials will be provided which can be implemented immediately into your classroom.

  • How to Teach Calculus to Non-AP Students (as Well as to AP Students)

    Date: February 10, 2009 (Code: HS021009)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Liz Marquez

    Audience: Grade 11-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    This workshop will focus on identifying and teaching the basic elements of calculus that all students should know, applications of calculus to various fields of endeavor, dealing with students’ algebraic misconceptions, and combating senioritis. Teaching strategies and assessment strategies will be shared.

  • Teaching Trigonometry through Applications

    Date: March 31, 2009 (Code: HS033109)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Liz Marquez

    Audience: Grade 10-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    This workshop will demonstrate how applications of trigonometry can be used to teach trigonometric functions. Applications will be made to situations in everyday life and to various human endeavors both past and present, all of which your students will find extremely engaging.

  • Teaching for Financial Literacy in Math Class

    Date: April 21, 2009 (Code: HS042109)
    Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
    Presenter: Liz Marquez, Paul Westbrook

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    Most high school students lack the basic financial skills crucial to success in life, yet everyone takes math and everyone is interested in money. This workshop will show teachers how to tap that money interest and help kids become mathematically and financially savvy by infusing money applications into NCTM standards-based lessons from pre-algebra through pre-calculus. Some of the applications that will be covered include: linear regression and the cost of owning a car; systems of equations and mortgage payments; measures of central tendency and buying stock; spreadsheets and credit card debt; sequences and future value; series and annuities; and percents and taxes.

  • Empowering Students Who Ask, “When Are We Ever Going to Use This Math?”

    Date: May 5, 2009 (Code: HS050509)
    Presenter: Robin Schwartz

    Audience: Grade 9-12 Mathematics Teachers, Mathematics Supervisors

    When Math is presented as a life skill that broadens career choice and inspires critical thinking, students embrace the learning of reasoning and problem-solving skills while building confidence and persistence. While many students will not major in science or engineering in college, all students benefit from the challenge and discipline of Math. This positive attitude can help teachers, administrators and students to meet the challenges of ‘teaching to the test’ by viewing it as an opportunity to address common errors and misunderstandings without formally reviewing. In fact, the comparison of multiple choice answers can help students to “think on their feet” while increasing accuracy, logic and frustration tolerance skills – assets in high school, college and the workplace. Worksheets will cover common secondary content incorporating HSPA and SAT content (including algebra, geometry, trig and precalc) and will use multiple representations and technology to appeal to diverse learning styles creating a path to success for all.

 

Payment Information

To encourage implementation at your school, we are offering discounts to schools or districts that send groups of participants. We are also offering a special discount for those participants who register for the series of four workshops.

1-3 Workshop Registrations = $195

4-9 Workshop Registrations (single individual or group) = $175

10 or more Workshop Registrations (single individual or group) = $155

Workshop fees include all materials, a continental breakfast and lunch.

Payment may be made by purchase order or personal check. Admittance to the workshop may be denied if no payment method is submitted by the day of the workshop.

Registration Information

You can register by:

Phone:  

(732) 445-4065 from Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

FAX:  

FAX Registration Form to (732)445-2894, 24-hours a day.

Mail:  

Send Registration Form to:

CMSCE
Rutgers University
SERC Building - Room 221
Busch Campus
118 Frelinghuysen Road
Piscataway, NJ 08854-8019

Once your registration is received, a confirmation letter including a map, directions, and parking information will be sent to you.

Click here to Register Online Now
OR
Click here for Registration Form

Cancellation Policy

A full refund will be issued to the appropriate party if this office is notified in writing at least five (5) business days prior to the workshop date. If you cancel within five (5) business days, or if neither you nor a substitute attend the workshop without notifying us, no refund will be issued.

All workshops are subject to cancellation for insufficient enrollment.

To obtain further information, or to register for workshops, call (732) 445-4065 or email programs@dimacs.rutgers.edu