7a. Prerequisite(s): (Course and/or other preparation/experience that is REQUIRED to be completed previous to enrollment in this course.)

Two years of high school algebra or Math. D or equivalent with a grade of "C" or better, or placement by matriculation assessment process

7b. Co-requisite(s):  (Courses and/or other preparation that is REQUIRED to be taken concurrently with this course.)

7c. Advisory: (Minimum preparation RECOMMENDED in order to be successful in this course.  Also known as “Course Advisory”.)

9b. Catalog Description:

Individual and small-group problem solving geared toward real life situations and nontraditional problems. Problem solving strategies include: draw a diagram, eliminate possibilities, make a systematic list, look for a pattern, guess and check, solve an easier related problem, subproblems, use manipulatives, work backward, act it out, unit analysis, use algebra, finite differences, and many others. Divergent thinking and technical communication skills of writing and oral presentation will be enhanced.

10. Student Performance Outcomes: (Outcomes for all credit courses must indicate that students will learn critical thinking and will be able to apply concepts at college level.  Outcomes must be related to items listed in Section 11.)

Using homework assignments, reports/projects, classroom discussions,
exams and quizzes, the student will:
1. demonstrate each learned strategy;
2. select and apply an appropriate strategy to solve a new problem;
3. solve problems using multiple strategies;
4. evaluate the effectiveness of their strategies;
5. recognize the appropriateness of a solution;
6. evaluate the reasonableness of a solution;
7. evaluate the appropriateness of a selected strategy;
8. work cooperatively in groups to solve problems;
9. write detailed explanations of the thought processes used to
solve problems;
10. present problem solutions to the whole class;
11. understand an oral presentation of the solution to a problem;
12. read and understand a written solution to a problem;
13. read a math text critically and with understanding;
14. practice metacognition;
15. speak the language of mathematics in discussing problems with
group members, presenting solutions to the class, and writing
solutions to problems;
16. think divergently while brainstorming possible approaches to new
problems;
17. attempt problems that are unusual and different from any previous
problem;
18. solve problems of increasingly greater difficulty;
19. work towards alleviating the fear caused by problems with words;
20. experience success in solving difficult problems;
21. develop greater confidence in problem solving ability; and
22. apply problem solving skills to life.

11. Course Content Outline: (Provides a comprehensive, sequential outline of the course content, including all major subject matter and the specific body of knowledge covered.)

I. Draw a Diagram
II. Make a Systematic List
III. Eliminate Possibilities
IV. Matrix Logic
V. Look for a Pattern
VI. Guess and Check
VII. Solve Subproblems
VIII. Unit Analysis
IX. Solve an Easier Related Problem
X. Physical Representations
A. Act It Out
B. Use Manipulatives
XI. Working Backwards
XII. Venn Diagrams
XIII. Algebra
XIV. Finite Differences
XV. Other Useful Strategies
A. Organize Information
B. Change Point of View
C. Solve the Complementary Problem
D. Change the Representation
E. Make a Scale Drawing
F. Draw a Graph

12. Typical Assignments: (List types of assignments, including library assignments.)

a. Reading Assignments: (Submit at least 2 examples)

b. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance: (Submit at least 2 examples)

c. Other (Terms projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

SECTION D

SECTION E

SECTION F

SECTION G