Is Algebra Necessary Math

Committing multiplication tables to memory although not by rote learning per se has value in developing automaticity that allows us to do higher order math and application of complex concepts.

Is algebra necessary math. Sean macentee is algebra anything necessary. The field of algebra can be further broken into basic concepts known as elementary algebra or the more abstract study of numbers and equations known as abstract algebra where the former is used in most mathematics science economics medicine and engineering while the latter is mostly used only in advanced mathematics. Calling elementary algebra a lofty mathematics bar is equivalent to insisting that being able to read is too much to ask of literature students. There is certainly a limit to the logic.

In the new york times for july 28 2012 andrew hacker wrote an article entitled is algebra necessary and concluding that it was not. Algebra problems like this one are at the heart of a dispute over the level of math deemed necessary to earn an associate degree or transfer to a four year college. Algebra need not be the gateway to learning these skills let alone the gateway to college success. And i think it isn t but that comes from thinking about what high school is for.

Okay let s say that algebra is not necessary and is simply a barrier forced upon poor poor non mathematics students. Algebra is critically important because it is often viewed as a gatekeeper to higher level mathematics and it s a required course for virtually every postsecondary school program he says. Because so many students fail to develop a solid math foundation an alarming number graduate from high school unprepared for college or work. As american students wrestle with algebra geometry and calculus often losing that contest the requirement of higher mathematics comes into question.

Statistics and data analysis for example.