Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums General Discussion algebra question--> really really dumb

OHH! My 3rd grader can graph a function, so that must be advanced calculus :-)

Hi all pink,

I just wanted to say that I have a master's degree in math and until looked at the Art of Problem Solving readiness tests a few months ago, I also would have said that your examples are algebra. And I would have insisted that my kids were doing algebra. In my view solving any linear equation = doing algebra.

It seems like in practice algebra is defined by level of difficulty, not just type of problem.

thanks for all your replies, at least I know for sure now that everyone would look at the term algebra differently (whereas I thought it was obvious, silly me)

Most Algebra in elementary school - and Middle School - is really Pre-Algebra. I am seeing more Pre-Algebra in actual Algebra Courses.

I am unsure what elementary calls Calculus, but true Calculus is considered transcendental math and includes Trig functions.

It helps students to have a preview and learn some of the "scary" vocabulary early on, but knowing Calculus needs a complete knowledge of all the functions.

So, what Calc is taught in elementary school?