The Conference Board of the Mathematical Sciences (CBMS) has proposed a course of study for future mathematics teachers that stresses a well-rounded mathematics learning experience focusing on five major strands of university-level mathematics:
(1) Algebra and Number Theory;
(2) Geometry and Trigonometry;
(3) Functions and Analysis;
(4) Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability; and
(5) Discrete Mathematics and Computer Science.
A critical component of their course of study is a "capstone"
course that focuses on all of these strands of mathematics and makes
the connections between their undergraduate mathematics experiences
and the secondary mathematics curriculum, allowing teachers to develop
the translation skills necessary for quality instruction. To remove
this huge disconnect between university-level mathematics and secondary
mathematics, a deep understanding of effective precollege mathematics
curriculum, instruction, and assessment such as proposed in the National
Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards (1989, 1991,
1995, 2000) is crucial. MLI's capstone course, the Summer Leadership
Institutes, is accomplishing this.