5 ms·
This is so misguided. The magic of math doesn’t happen when you are superficially going through more “advanced” topics. And they are definitely going through it
by imranq 7y ago
This is so misguided. The magic of math doesn’t happen when you are superficially going through more “advanced” topics. And they are definitely going through it superficially since only one score mentioned was a 5 (which is incredibly easy to get since it allows for almost 40% incorrect answers).
It’s way better to make sure the basics in geometry, algebra and Pre-calc are rock solid before taking a calculus course. This way you don’t memorize a bag of tricks, but can derive unique and creative approaches when you need to. Its more fun that way too.
Preferably these kids should be able to solve any USAMO problem under time pressure before going on to advanced subjects. It’s Cargo cult math otherwise.
https://artofproblemsolving.com/news/articles/avoid-the-calculus-trap https://artofproblemsolving.com/news/articles/avoid-the-calc...
- cmroanirgo 7y agoThis view doesn't seem to be reflected in the article to me: >This coming school year, 140 sixth- and seventh-graders at three Pasadena middle schools will be taking math courses usually given to 10th- and 11th-graders. Thirty-eight eighth-graders at two middle schools will enroll in Calculus BC, the more advanced of two AP calculus options. And >“Their scores don’t reflect the true extent of their mathematical knowledge and skill,” That said, what is the need for "time pressure" in mathematics? There are plenty of unsolved equations out there: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_unsolved_problems_in_mathematics https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_unsolved_problems_in...
- imranq 7y agoThe only way someone can even approach those problems is if the basics are so good they can do it in their sleep.
- dTal 7y agoA 5 is a 20th percentile score; I'm not sure I'd quite term that "incredibly easy".