Importance of Algebra
Algebra is simply finding the unknown. It involves representation of a real life situation as a mathematical variable in an equation then solving the problem. Many tutors and books focus mainly on the rules, formulas, and procedures as they forget explaining to the students the core purpose of algebra. When solving an algebraic equation one is expected to use symbols to denote variables and absent factors in the equations then manipulate them in a way which will lead you to the desired solution.
An algebraic equation consists of two sides where what happens on one side should also happen on the other side, for the matters of balance. It also contains variable and constants. Numbers and letters are used to represent constants and variables respectively. Algebra may involve real numbers, complex numbers, vectors, matrices, and other types of mathematical demonstrations. This branch of mathematics can be subdivided into elementary algebra and abstract algebra (Deb, 2017). The elementary part deals with science, economics, engineering, medicine, and mathematical problems, while the abstract section is used when dealing with advanced mathematical problems.
Algebra studied is a topic which its study begins from preschool and goes as far as twelfth grade, as stated by Matt Larson, who was the president of National council for teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). It is critical since it acts as a gatekeeper to advanced mathematics. It is also a requirement for almost all postsecondary school programs.
Knowledge on algebra is useful within the school environment as well as outside school. When out of college one requires this knowledge when; paying bills, managing budget, planning for future investments, and cost of healthcare and other expenses one is involved in life.
Study of algebra enhances development of life skills such as; critical thinking in dealing with logical functions and patterns, it also promotes deductive and inductive reasoning. Therefore an understanding of this concept of algebra gives an individual a better hand in dealing with complex problems that constitute numbers (Deb, 2017). A good foundation on this topic brings confidence when in a real life scenario involving unknown variables on expenses and profits of a company or even an individual. On such matters algebra is used to find the missing factor.
Most importantly the more one knows about math, the higher the chances that he or she is going to succeed also in other fields like engineering, physics, actuarial science, programming, and other related fields. Due to this factor algebra has become a requirement a student needs in order to take such courses at campus and college level. Therefore a good foundation on algebra makes campus life smooth and more successful. On the same note good knowledge on algebra increases the number of graduates from universities.
Normally kids are introduced to algebra while in eighth or ninth grade. When a child starts studying this topic at eighth grade comes with numerous advantages, for example if a child takes the PSAT as a high school sophomore, he or she will be introduced to geometry when in the ninth grade. By the she ventures into SAT or ACT at this junior level, she will be done with Algebra II (Deb, 2017). A good master of algebra at this level will equip a student for college admission tests.
Algebra is a major domain of mathematics which is key to every person. Application of algebra is essential in virtually all the careers in life including, economics, engineering, actuarial science, education, medicine, programming and other related fields. “Some students get turned off of math because they start math too early,” as stated by Francis “Skip” Fennell a former president of NCTM (Deb, 2017). Due to this reason the introduction of algebra and mathematics begins at eighth grade.
References
R. (2017, July 21). Algebra: Using Mathematical Symbols. Retrieved from ThoughtCo: https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-algebra-why-take-algebra-2311937