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[Phys-L] Re: student mathematical capabilities



I agree with your sentiments. Sadly I have found there is frequently
the same conceptual gap when talking to our math colleagues, not to
mention turf, turf, turf.

joe
Joseph J. Bellina, Jr.
Professor of Physics
Saint Mary's College
Notre Dame, IN 46556
jbellina@saintmarys.edu



On Sep 19, 2005, at 1:54 PM, Jack Uretsky wrote:

Hi all-
Well, we can sit around complaining, like a bunch of
out-of-work Geezers, or we can try a constructive effort at
reforming the
system. I suggest the latter, the first immediate goal being a
statement
from the AAPT on the teaching of math.
Our clout (a local Chicago word) out to be great. The
ultimate
sanction being the takeover of math preparation of students who are
interested in careers in the Physical and Biological sciences.
My suggestion for a starting point is a statement of proposed
outcomes, at the end of grade 12, in the subjects of algebra,
geometry and
pre-calculus - without limiting ourselves to bureaucratic
definitions of
those topics.
I realize that my use of terms like "proposed outcomes" and
"bureaucratic" may be subject to varying interpretations. Such
ambiguity
is fine to the extent that it stimulates initial discussion.
This list may be a good place for formulating an initial
proposal
to the AAPT.
Whatever works!
Regards,
Jack


--
"Trust me. I have a lot of experience at this."
General Custer's unremembered message to his men,
just before leading them into the Little Big Horn
Valley

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