Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums General Discussion Is Algebra Necessary?

Exactly. About a decade ago, when my older DS got problems like these in first and second grade, I was surprised. Back then, there wasn't a name so I refer to them as kiddie algebra problems for lack of a better name. These days, my district has math units specifically labelled "elementary algebra" covering these easy as well as more difficult algebra-like problems as you proceed through the elementary math curriculum. These days, I am also seeing a significant extension of the coverage of geometry topics in elementary math curriculums.

Interesting. Our district does not use either of those textbooks. I do recall that Algebra II for older DS did review those toopics, but it also proceeded to more complex topics as well.

I just had to use algebra to solve a blood transfusion problem for some lab for some friend of my wife.

Apparently, I'm a general purpose help desk.

Maybe once the expression is written on paper, it's a simple Pre-Algebra problem. The process that came before it, of arriving at an expression where two linear equations intersect, was Algebra I in my district.

Indeed. And this is exactly why performing simple arithmetic is a poor substitute for Algebra. You can tap out the solution for one year on your calculator, but then you have to keep running other scenarios through it in order to gain a half-useful understanding.

How much for the first year? *tap* *tap* *tap*

But we're planning on leaving in April... *tap* *tap* *tap*

Grr... I hate math.

What if we end up being delayed a couple months? *tap* *tap* *tap*

Or, you can just write out one expression, and instantly have a full conceptual understanding of how the two solutions relate. As I said, it's not the best question.

And of course, these problems are never this simple, because we haven't even looked at annual contracts, relocation costs, or equipment rent.

This scenario illustrates why so many people fail at family finances. You need Algebra to do it right.

Our state has gone to Common Core so there is no more "algebra" class. Here is the content our state (NC) is using for High School Math 1:

Chapter 1: Solving Linear Equations
Chapter 2: Graphing and Writing Linear Equations
Chapter 3: Solving Linear Inequalities
Chapter 4: Solving Systems of Linear Equations
Chapter 5: Linear Functions
Chapter 6: Exponential Equations and Functions
Chapter 7: Polynomial Equations and Factoring
Chapter 8: Graphing Quadratic Functions
Chapter 9: Solving Quadratic Equations
Chapter 10: Square Root Functions and Geometry
Chapter 11: Rational Equations and Functions
Chapter 12: Data Analysis and Displays

As you can see the algebra is a tad lighter than most of us are used to in Algebra 1, more geometry is mixed in, and there's a bit on Data Analysis. Next year, there will be no more "geometry" class as we knew it -- that will also be a Common Core class (HS Math 2) and it will continue the algebra/geometry/and other stuff mix. This will continue through HS Math 3, after which point, the students will be set free to take more traditional higher level math classes and the Common Core requirements will have been fulfilled. That is the way our state is doing it. I am not sure whether all states are splitting the HS Common Core standards into 3 years, but my guess is most are. These classes replace algebra 1, geometry, algebra 2.

Remalew,

What is after HS Math 3 - Calc?

I'd guess pre-calc or Trig, depending on one's location.

That sequence is also intended to lead non-calc students to business math/econ and to stats.

Officially, our state says a "higher level math class to be aligned with student's post HS plans."

I've seen some graduation requirement lists that say pre-calc, some that say calc, some that say you can even take discrete math. Have to take 4 maths in HS though if you're in any of the college prep paths. I think it varies by county what they will allow for the 4th math and by school as to what is available.

Many kids start taking HS math 1 in middle school- crucial to do if you want to get to any AP math.

It will be interesting to see how other common core states deal with this.

Not sure what happens to Trig. I suspect it's included in the 3rd Common Core HS math. I haven't looked at the standards beyond the first math yet (our state hadn't had them published last I checked, but I'm sure they are now as they start going live with those next year).