Pre-Algebra

Section A: Tuesdays 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time (10:00-11:30 AM Pacific Time)

Pre-requisites: 7th grade or higher and has memorized multiplication facts to at least 9, preferably to 15.

Pre-Algebra is a classical, Christian approach to the liberal arts of mathematics. Galileo Galilei proposed, “Mathematics is the language in which God has written the universe.” Math is the language... Math is a language? A language implies communication. While a language, like any language, can be learned by textbooks and one-way imparting of information, the ability does not imply it should be taught solely in that manner. To become fluent, one must speak conversationally. Utilizing a state-of-the-art eLearning system for the foundational framework of didactic instruction and diligent development of intellectual skills and habits, this course builds upon the grammar stage and soundly equips students as they build fluency in the language of math during the logic/dialectic stage.

This 1.0 credit course consists of two semesters. Each semester students will be assigned lessons, quizzes, and exams from the required eLearning Course, record weekly journal entries, and will participate in live recitations as an active member. The last 15 minutes will typically be reserved for student Q&A.

Course Objectives

1. To look at mathematics and geometry from a biblical viewpoint.
2. To build upon the grammar-stage mathematical knowledge of basic facts and fundamentals and move into the logic-stage principles, relations, and concepts of Prealgebra.
3. To learn, review, and practice intellectual skills of learning in the fundamentals of mathematics.
4. Within the rigor of the materials and calendar, to contemplate the truth, beauty, and goodness via journaling and actively participating in discussions of mathematics.
5. To study the language of mathematics with a goal of improving fluency.
6. To gain understanding and wisdom in the arts of mathematics using Cicero’s Five Canons of Rhetoric to participate in various methods of discussions.

Curriculum

• Shormann, David, PhD. Prealgebra (Required eLearning Course subscription) Please purchase the $69 non-refundable, 12-month school license through Kepler and not through DIVE.

Attendance:

Attendance is a vital part of this course; therefore, students must attend class sessions and actively participate in discussions. Unless stated otherwise, students are expected to have completed the assignments before coming to class. Although the recitations will be recorded, a student cannot participate while watching a recording.

General Information for the Virtual Classroom:

• Stable internet connection
• Working webcam, headset, and microphone
• Ability to convert written work into clear, readable portable document format (pdf)

NOTE: This course introduces and cultivates intellectual skills and habits necessary as they progress through the Trivium Arts, even into the Quadrivium. Adequately blocked time is necessary to diligently develop skills and habits and avoid “cram, test, dump” mentality. Depending on student's math knowledge and fluency, consider blocking up to two hours per day for margins around a focused 1.5 hours of study four (or five) days a week, plus the weekly 1.5-hour recitation, especially in the first quarter.