module
Postgraduate Module Descriptor
EMAM009: Semi Specialist Maths (Primary)
This module descriptor refers to the 2023/4 academic year.
Module Content
Syllabus Plan
The module introduces students to current thinking in the teaching of mathematics and develops students’ pedagogic and academic subject knowledge in the wider field of mathematics education.
Whilst the precise contents and order may vary from year to year, key elements of the module might include:
Mathematics workshop programme covering:
- education theories related to good mathematics learning and teaching; emphasis on problem solving and mathematical reasoning;
- exploration of common misconceptions;
- creating a problem solving booklet and resources; critiquing resources and commercial schemes;
- mathematical thinking and the role of talk in developing children’s mathematics;
- collaborative learning and interactive classrooms;
- using ICT to develop mathematical thinking and spatial awareness;
- multi-cultural approaches to calculation and strategy games;
- cross curricular approaches – links to Art and science;
- mathematics in outdoor learning environments through Forest School, mathematics trails and visits;
- knowledge of the Early Years and KS3 curriculum
Learning and Teaching
This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:
| Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities | Guided independent study | Placement / study abroad |
|---|---|---|
| 51 | 249 | 0 |
...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:
| Category | Hours of study time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities | 33 | Practical classes and workshops: Mathematics Pedagogy & theory workshops; Peer Teaching and Subject Support Groups |
| Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities | 8 | Seminar Days |
| Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities | 9 | Pathway activities |
| Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities | 1 | Tutorials with academic tutor |
| Guided independent study | 40 | Ready set texts |
| Guided independent study | 50 | Wider reading |
| Guided independent study | 22 | Web-based activities |
| Guided independent study | 35 | Seminar/workshop preparation and follow up |
| Guided independent study | 12 | Peer teaching activity preparation |
| Guided independent study | 30 | Learning support group preparation |
| Guided independent study | 60 | Coursework assignment preparation |
Online Resources
This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).
Nunes, T. Bryant, P.and Watson, A (2009) Key Understandings in Mathematics Learning Nuffield Foundation accessible from http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/key-understandings-mathematics-learning accessed 03/07/12
See Ian Thompson’s wide range of articles – in particular ‘Deconstructing the PNS approach to calculation’ parts 1 – 4 available from http://www.ianthompson.pi.dsl.pipex.com/index_files/Page352.htm accessed 03/07/12
Educational Studies in Mathematics: mathematics education research journal
ZDM mathematics education research journal
Journal of Mathematical Behaviour: Mathematics education research journal