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I learned algebra in middle school, in one year. What is this insanity of which you speak?
by javajosh 5y ago
I learned algebra in middle school, in one year. What is this insanity of which you speak?
- pjbeam 5y agohttps://www.fcps.edu/academics/graduation-requirements-and-course-planning/high-school-course-sequencing/mathematics https://www.fcps.edu/academics/graduation-requirements-and-c... Here's the HS math sequence options from my local school district in VA. Can't speak to many other places but this is what my above comment is based on.
- ianbutler 5y agoOnly one of those options will even leave you remotely prepared for college level mathematics. The fact it stops at Algebra 2 or Part 2 for most of those options is criminal.
- mattkrause 5y ago“Algebra” by itself is meaninglessly broad. You could certainly teach “solve [some simple kinds of] equations for an unknown” in a few months; you could also have a whole mathematical career as an algebraist.
- javajosh 5y agoThe term is not meaninglessly broad here in the US. We use the term "abstract algebra" to describe the more general subject, usually taught in college-level courses in groups, fields, and so on. Mere 'algebra' does indeed mostly mean "solving for an unknown", although I'd argue there's an important, more general concept of 'equation' introduced. From what I've read the concept of 'variable' is tricky for a lot of kids.