The Last Time You Used Algebra Was...

New York Times, December 12, 2004
The Last Time You Used Algebra Was...
By DONALD G. McNEIL Jr.

It's been a long time since most of us have used algebra in our daily lives - unless, perhaps, you're helping your child with homework or work in a field that uses lots of mathematics. However, learning algebra is still important. The concepts I learned in mathematics have helped me with learning other concepts in different fields - math teaches you a way of thinking.

"...kids don't study poetry just because they're going to grow up to be poets. It's about a habit of mind. Your mind doesn't think abstractly unless it's asked to - and it needs to be asked to from a relatively young age. The rigor and logic that goes into math is a good way for your brain to be trained," said Miss Collins, the author's daughter's math teacher.

The Last Time You Used Algebra Was...

Posted by at December 12, 2004 8:28 PM
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