Mathematics for Teaching BS

Overview

The Mathematics for Teaching major is designed primarily for students planning to teach mathematics at the high school level. It provides exposure to a broad range of mathematical topics, especially those appropriate for the prospective teacher. Students planning to pursue graduate studies in mathematics or related fields are encouraged to … For more content click the Read More button below.

The Mathematics for Teaching major is designed primarily for students planning to teach mathematics at the high school level. It provides exposure to a broad range of mathematical topics, especially those appropriate for the prospective teacher. Students planning to pursue graduate studies in mathematics or related fields are encouraged to enter the Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, or Mathematics of Computation major.

Capstone Major

The Mathematics for Teaching major is a designated capstone major. In their senior year students complete a year-long course sequence that culminates in a model lesson presentation, paper, and portfolio. Through their capstone work, students demonstrate their familiarity with research and current issues in mathematics education, as well as their … For more content click the Read More button below.

The Mathematics for Teaching major is a designated capstone major. In their senior year students complete a year-long course sequence that culminates in a model lesson presentation, paper, and portfolio. Through their capstone work, students demonstrate their familiarity with research and current issues in mathematics education, as well as their capacities to problem solve; reason quantitatively, geometrically, and algebraically; construct viable arguments; critique others’ reasoning; and use tools strategically.

Learning Outcomes

Strong mathematical content knowledge

Sound theoretical and practical background for mathematics expected to be taught in secondary schools

Understanding of the importance of mathematical thinking to design teaching to imbue students with a problem-solving and analytical spirit

Familiarity with pedagogical research and ability to apply it to classroom work

Ability to effectively plan lessons

Preparation and experience in different modes of instruction

Ability to use mathematical sophistication to shape lessons

Requirements

Admission

Current UCLA students need to apply for the Mathematics for Teaching major by filing a petition with the Student Services Office in 6356 Mathematical Sciences. All students are identified as Mathematics for Teaching premajors until they satisfy the following minimum requirements for the major: (1) achieve grades of C or better in all premajor mathematics sequenced courses (Mathematics 31A, 31B, 32A, 32B, 33A, 33B), (2) achieve a minimum 2.5 grade-point average in the calculus sequence with no more than two repeats, (3) complete one 12-unit term in residence in regular session at UCLA, (4) be enrolled in UCLA regular session at the time of application, and (5) file a petition to declare the major before completing 160 quarter units.

Premajor

Preparation for the Major

Preparation for the Major Policies

Each course must be taken for a letter grade. The mathematics sequenced courses (Mathematics 31A or 31AL, 31B, 32A, 32B, 33A, 33B) are calculated separately from the other preparation for the major courses and must be completed with a minimum overall 2.5 grade-point average and a grade of C or better in each course. The other preparation courses must be completed with a minimum overall 2.0 grade-point average and a grade of C- or better in each course.

Repetition of more than two mathematics sequenced courses or of any mathematics sequenced course more than once results in automatic dismissal from the major.

First-Year Students

Transfer Students

Transfer applicants to the Mathematics for Teaching major with 90 or more units must complete as many of the following introductory courses as possible prior to admission to UCLA: two years of calculus for majors, one discrete structures course, one C++ programming course, and three courses from calculus-based physics, general chemistry for majors, and computing.

Refer to the UCLA transfer admission guide for up-to-date information regarding transfer selection for admission.

After satisfying the preparation for the major requirements, students need to petition to enter the major at the Student Services Office after completing one 12-unit term in residence in regular session at UCLA, and while enrolled in UCLA regular session at the time of application.

The Major

Required: Mathematics 106, 110A or 117, 115A, 120A or 123, 131A, 170A or Statistics 100A, Statistics 100B, one course from Mathematics 110B through 191H or Statistics 100C, one course from Mathematics 131B through 136, one course from 142 through 167, and a capstone series in the senior year (courses 105A, 105B, 105C).

Mathematics 115A is required of all majors and is intended to be the first upper-division course taken. It is strongly advised that students take Mathematics 115A as soon as the major is declared, if not earlier.

The Major Policies

Computing Specialization

Majors may select a specialization in Computing by (1) satisfying all the requirements for a bachelor’s degree in the specified major and (2) completing Mathematics 61 or 180, Program in Computing 10A, 10B, two courses from 10C, 15, 16A, 20A, 40A, and at least two courses from Mathematics 149 through 159, with a minimum grade of C– in each course and a combined grade-point average of at least 2.0. Students must petition for admission to this program and are advised to do so after they complete Program in Computing 10B (petitions should be filed in the Student Services Office). Students graduate with a bachelor’s degree in their major and a specialization in Computing.