math 122 & math 123. introduction to math abcs courses math academically-based community...

Math 122 & Math 123

Introduction to Math ABCS Courses

Math academically-based community service courses that provide the opportunity for Penn students to both learn and teach fundamental concepts with algebra and geometry to high school students

Math 122 & Math 123 (since 2007)

Partnership schools University City High School (UCHS) Sayre High School

UCHS

Goals of the Courses

Allow students to learn new ideas in mathematics and examine their understanding of previously learned algebraic and geometric concepts

Encourage students to develop methods for teaching with understanding

Provide students with the opportunity to explore the context in which algebra and geometry are taught in Philadelphia public high schools

SAYRE

Structure of Math ABCS

1st portion of the semester Refresh students’ algebra and/or geometry knowledge Complete and Keystone and high school math placement problem

sets

2nd portion of the semester One class/week dedicated for dry-run of certain math exercises One class/week dedicated for implementation of certain math

exercises (Each student returns to same high school and works with same

student)

3rd portion of the semester Penn students create final projects

UCHS

Qualitative Aspects

During our class sessions at Penn, a portion of our lectures are dedicated to discussing Racial landscape of public school systems Socioeconomic dilemmas in education Effective teaching/learning methodologies

SAYRE

Gauging Effectiveness of Partnership

Pre-test on wide range of curriculum material before Penn students begin tutoring

Assessment on topics that will be covered that semester

Post-test on same curriculum topics after tutoring program is complete

Certainty meter to evaluate student changes in confidence throughout program

UCHS

Sample Pre-test Problem