MA 230

Undergraduate Courses

MA 230, Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers

Catalog Description

The course emphasizes the use of logical thinking in mathematics and the development of students' understandings of algorithm design. Directed at providing the elementary education student the mathematical background necessary for an understanding of the mathematical principles that are introduced to children in the elementary grades. Emphasis on sets, an understanding of the number system (integers, fractions, decimals, percents), number theory, basic probability and statistics, and geometry. Open only to students majoring in elementary education.


Successful completion of nine hours of mathematics with a grade of C or better from the following course:

  • MA 107
  • MA 110
  • MA 112
  • MA 113
  • MA 120
  • MA 171
  • MA 172
  • MA 201

Credit Hours

3 Semester Hours

Grading System

This course is graded A, B, C, D, F. The grade typically depends on a combination of class tests, homework, quizzes, and a comprehensive final exam.

Course Objectives

The mathematical preparation of elementary teachers should include experiences encompassing the nature and use of numbers; patterns and functions, geometry, probability, and collecting, representing, and interpreting data. Generally, this course is intended to prepare elementary mathematics teachers to:

  1. Communicate mathematical ideas with clarity.
  2. Organize and analyze information, solve problems readily, and construct logical arguments.
  3. Develop a thorough understanding of the mathematical foundations of the processes and algorithms used.
  4. Develop an understanding of the connections between mathematical topics.
  5. Observe and participate in the use of various instructional strategies for communicating mathematical ideas.

Specifically, MA 233 is intended to prepare teachers for the elementary grades by providing experiences in which they will:

  1. Practice using the logical thinking and reasoning skills needed in mathematics.
  2. Investigate the role of numbers as a logical, predictable system for expressing and relating quantities.
  3. Analyze and compare features and basic computational techniques in selected modern and historical numeration systems.
  4. Explore the properties, operations and algorithms of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents.
  5. Use estimation and mental arithmetic, calculators, computers, pencil-and-paper algorithms, and manipulative materials in solving a variety of problems.
  6. Recognize the study of patterns as an underlying fundamental theme in mathematics.
  7. Create and use pictures, charts, and graphs to recognize and describe mathematical relationships.
  8. Understand selected topics from basic probability and statistics.
  9. Discover and analyze functional relationships.
  10. Develop the use of variables and other algebraic notation as an efficient way to describe relationships.
  11. Use the study of geometry to better understand problems in everyday life.