Why Don’t We like Algebra?
Let’s Explore Algebra
Algebra is a comprehensive branch of mathematics that uses abstraction by substituting alphabetic characters for numbers. It is this generalization that often scares many and thrills some. Algebra topics range by working through simple tasks such as factoring trinomials and eventually progressing on to finding the inverse of a matrix. In most cases, just as in any other mathematics associated class, students start 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.
Help!!! Exponents, Radicals and Graphing on the Way…
There are many higher level themes. Firstly there are powers. An exponent is the little number placed to the right and slightly above a number or algebraic expression. An example is (x + y)3 where the 3 is the power and denotes the power to which that number is raised. The above algebraic expression is expressed as, x plus y to the third power. While working with exponents you will oftentimes see exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. If you pick up the basic principles, you will shortly get down to working with rational and negative powers and if you think those are not challenging enough, hopefully radicals will spin your head. A radical, in simple terms, is the reversing of an power. Radical expressions are referred by the symbolization “V” and when placed alongside number 4, it is read as square root of 4, which is equal to 2. The contrasting exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. Additionally, exponents can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided by radicals. Radicals can be switched into exponents and exponents back into radicals. If you find that powers and roots don’t really stimulate your interest, you could move on to graphing. The best way to start with graphing is to draw lines and try to figure out if they are horizontal, 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!
Need Help?
While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. It’s time to look around because there exists a wide array of resources that is able to help you master the theme. Look for math tutors or software packages that will walk you through stepwise process on how to solve any problem. Know that frustration is not your only friend because any of these tools can help you become an algebra expert in no time.