06.15.09
Is Algebra Scary?
What is Algebra?
It is an area of mathematics that use letter of the alphabets in replacement of numbers to derive results for a given situation. It is this generalization that often frightens many and thrills some. topics of algebra extend from working with fractions to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. In nearly all cases, just as in any other mathematics associated class, students start off by adding, subtracting and simplifying algebraic expressions . They then move on to understanding equivalent fractions, finding Least Common Multiples (LCM) and converting fractions to decimals.
Oh no! It’s Exponents, Radicals and Graphing
There are numerous higher level themes. To start off with there are exponents. A power is the tiny number placed as superscript to a number or algebraic expression. In this example (x + y)3 where the 3 is the power and denotes the power to which that number is exponentiated. The above algebraic expression is read as, x plus y to the third power. While working with exponents you will oftentimes come across exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. You can work with rational and negative exponents. If that isn’t enough to make your head spin, then you can move on to radicals. A radical, in simple terms, is the reversing of an power. The V beside 4 denote a radical expression which means, the square root of 4, which equals 2. The contrasting exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. As with exponents, radical expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied and divided. Radicals can be switched into powers and powers back into radicals. If you find that powers and roots don’t really stimulate your interest, you could move on to graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and deciding if the line is horizontal or vertical or neither. Another question to ask is whether the line has an x-intercept or a y-intercept Furthermore, try and see if you can find the slope of a line. Once you master graphing lines, a whole world of circles, parabolas and hyperbolas awaits you!
Help is Available
While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. There are many resources out there that can help you master quadratic systems of inequalities, quadratic formulas and polynomials. Look for math tutors or software applications that will walk you through gradual process on how to solve any problem. Know that frustration is not your only friend because any of these tools can assist you become an algebra expert in very little time.
