Some things just get me really mad

[kalharia]

I read something in the News-Journal today. The intended statement of the article was that Algebra should not be required to graduate from high school. However, it was written from a math-phobic viewpoint. And what gets me so mad, is that there is a Math-phobe saying that math isn't necessary for life or important and that writting is better

Comments

[blastus]

For those who are interested, the original article and other op-ed articles by Richard Cohen. I'm not terribly impressed with this fellow's views, solutions, or conclusions on algebra or current events in general. If nothing else, it is probably safe to say that the public school system failed him, at least in the mathematical sense.

[white_iris_down]

Question - what does graduation mean to this guy - he seems hell bent on allowing all 'passing' high school, and equating a ruined life with math a correlation (in research this is an algebraic equation with a solution equivalent to the Holy Grail). If the girl described failed Algebra 6 times I would be quicker to blame the teachers faster than the subject. And external and compound factors quicker than factorials. I mean - saying a subject has no value to the 'normal' person in current society is making a massive value claim for someone not good at percentages. That and his excuse for a math problem. No variables, just a two social factors. I mean, the answer to that IS logical (something he claims writing teaches though he does not seem to have caught). Empty set. How many boys does it take to mow a lawn when one leaves half way through and two show up later? Well, no one can mow without a lawn mower. Null. Which is where I believe he might have left his reason. I suggest Cohen check for it in some math text between some

shocked agreement

[aeila]

Wow...he really said that...Martin, you know my opinion on math...and that guy is so wrong! On that, I do agree with you!
I have a slight disagreement with your statement that math and writing teach the same amount of logic...Math definitely teaches more. Maybe you learned an equal amount from both because you have a more inherently logical mindset than, well, most people. From what I have viewed, Math teaches logic the actual logic, and the thought processes that go along with it. Writing merely teaches how to clearly communicate them to the majority of the population.
Also...if you can't pass Algebra in high school...how on earth will you be able to pass the math requirments in college? Furthermore, the only college that accepts applicants without passing algebra 1 are JC's.
ok, maybe it wasn't a basic skill when he was a kid (I don't know what generation he is), but it todays society it is a neccesity.

[blastus]

You should check this out. It tells a more complete story of Gabriela and her schoolmates ane teachers.