Pre-AP: Strategies in Mathematics—Functions
Expand your math teaching skills, techniques and knowledge in this workshop
Participants develop a deep content knowledge of functions and discuss grade-level-appropriate content, classroom strategies, and how to use technology to promote understanding. The workshop emphasizes student thinking as the key to learning and communication as the key to assessing understanding. Topics include linear, quadratic, and nonlinear functions.
The workshop conforms to the College Board's mission, particularly in promoting access and equity; National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards; and to AP Calculus AB and Calculus BC topic outlines.
Goals
- Understand AP mathematics standards and the role of Pre-AP in developing them
- Learn about the dependency of input and output variables
- Help students create linkages between ratio and rate using variables and the concept of function
- Help students use graphs to investigate problems
- Learn what students need for AP Calculus AB and Calculus BC
- Appreciate issues and strategies critical to AP Vertical Teams in Mathematics
Agenda
Introduction to the Concept of Functions
Function as a Model
An Example of Function as a Model
Linear Functions
Quadratic Functions
Nonlinear Functions and Functions as Models
Workshop author
Jim Choike is a professor of mathematics at Oklahoma State University (OSU). He has been involved with the College Board for 20 years as an AP Reader, workshop presenter, curriculum developer, and professional development specialist. Mr. Choike has also worked on the College Board's Pathways to Equity and Excellence, Pacesetter, CLEP, SAT, and SpringBoard programs. He teaches undergraduate and graduate mathematics courses at OSU and uses his summer months to work with middle and high school teachers and their students.