Mathematics for Elementary Teachers: A Conceptual Approach

Albert B. Bennett, Jr. and L. Ted Nelson have presented hundreds of workshops on how to give future teachers the conceptual understanding and procedural fluency they will need in order to successfully teach elementary-school mathematics. The Seventh Edition of Mathematics for Elementary Teachers: A Conceptual Approach continues their innovative, time-tested approach: an emphasis on learning via specific, realistic examples and the extensive use of visual aids, hands-on activities, problem-solving strategies and active classroom participation. Special features in the text ensure that prospective teachers will gain not only a deeper understanding of the mathematical concepts, but also a better sense of the connections between their college math courses and their future teaching experiences, along with helpful ideas for presenting math to their students in a way that will generate interest and enthusiasm. The text draws heavily on NCTM Standards and contains many pedagogical elements designed to foster reasoning, problem-solving and communication skills. The Seventh Edition will also incorporate in-text references to the virtual manipulative kit and other online resources that enhance the authors explanations and examples.

1 Problem Solving

1.1 Introduction to Problem Solving

1.2 Patterns and Problem Solving

1.3 Problem Solving with Algebra

2 Sets, Functions, and Reasoning

2.1 Sets and Venn Diagrams

2.2 Functions, Coordinates, and Graphs

2.3 Introduction to Deductive Reasoning

3 Whole Numbers

3.1 Numeration Systems

3.2 Addition and Subtraction

3.3 Multiplication

3.4 Division and Exponents

4 Number Theory

4.1 Factors and Multiples

4.2 Greatest Common Factor and Least Common Multiple

5 Integers and Fractions

5.1 Integers

5.2 Introduction to Fractions

5.3 Operations with Fractions

6 Decimals: Rational and Irrational Numbers

6.1 Decimals and Rational Numbers

6.2 Operations with Decimals

6.3 Ratio, Percent, and Scientific Notation

6.4 Irrational and Real Numbers

7 Statistics

7.1 Collecting and Graphing Data

7.2 Describing and Analyzing Data

7.3 Sampling, Predictions, and Simulations

8 Probability

8.1 Single-Stage Experiments

8.2 Multistage Experiments

9 Geometric Figures

9.1 Plane Figures

9.2 Polygons and Tessellations

9.3 Space Figures

9.4 Symmetric Figures

10 Measurement

10.1 Systems of Measurement

10.2 Area and Perimeter

10.3 Volume and Surface Area

11 Motions in Geometry

11.1 Congruence and Constructions

11.2 Congruence Mappings

11.3 Similarity Mappings

References for Research Statements by Chapters

Answers to Selected Math Activities

Answers to Odd-Numbered Exercises and Problems and Chapter Tests