Mathematical Models for Teaching

Book excerpt: Students of mathematics learn best when taught by a teacher with a deep and conceptual understanding of the fundamentals of mathematics. In Mathematical Models for Teaching, Ann Kajander and Tom Boland argue that teachers must be equipped with a knowledge of mathematics for teaching, which is grounded in modelling, reasoning, and problem-based learning. A comprehensive exploration of models and concepts, this book promotes an understanding of the material that goes beyond memorization and recitation, which begins with effective teaching. This vital resource is divided into 15 chapters, each of which addresses a specific mathematical concept. Focusing on areas that have been identified as problematic for teachers and students, Mathematical Models for Teaching equips teachers with a different type of mathematical understanding-one that supports and encourages student development. Features: grounded in the most current research about teachers' learning contains cross-chapter connections that identify common ideas includes chapter concluding discussion questions that encourage critical thinking incorporates figures and diagrams that simplify and solidify important mathematical concepts offers further reading suggestions for instructors seeking additional information