EDF1162 - Subject knowledge for teaching: Number and algebra - 2019

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL

Undergraduate - Unit




Chief examiner(s)

Penelope Kalogeropoulos


Karina Wilkie

Unit guides



  • Second semester 2019 (On-campus)


This unit is framed around the importance of teachers having a profound and flexible understanding of fundamental mathematics, particularly as it relates to number and algebra. The core of the unit involves students working in groups on carefully selected mathematics problems that focus on a deep conceptual and connected understanding of number and early algebra. Carefully chosen problems, together with whole class discussion emerging from students' work on the problems, challenge students to reason about the mathematics and develop their problem-solving skills. Importantly, students are encouraged to view learning as supported by dialogue and to develop their own understandings through working with others' thinking on a topic. Students learn to communicate mathematical ideas effectively, using a range of media including information and communication technologies (ICTs).


Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

  1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, substance and structure of the mathematical content underpinning number and algebra in the primary school curriculum
  2. show awareness of how the concepts and structure of primary number and algebra relate to the mathematics for secondary schooling and beyond
  3. demonstrate broad knowledge and understanding of the historical and cultural nature of number and operations and how this relates to education of students from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
  4. display confidence in being a competent and creative mathematics learner who can foster these attributes in their own learners.


Report on problem-solving activity (can include individual and/or group work) (1600 words or equivalent per student, 40%)


Workload requirements

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:

  1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
    • 2 hour workshop per week
  2. Additional requirements:
    • 10 hours of independent study per week

See also Unit timetable information

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study