Re: Algebra for all 8th graders in FL: Let them eat cake

["Arthur Hu" <arthurhu@comcast.net>]

This is also the justification for NCTM to throw what used to
be college level statistics into what are now state mathematics
standards based tests. The thinking goes, it's unfair that only
those that go beyond algebra get to learn these important concepts,
so let's integrate it into the curriculum as early as kindergarten.


-----Original Message-----
From: arn-l-owner@interversity.org
[mailto:arn-l-owner@interversity.org]On Behalf Of LAndrews1@aol.com
Sent: Thursday, September 18, 2003 5:29 AM
To: arn-l@interversity.org
Subject: Re: [arn-l] Algebra for all 8th graders in FL: Let them eat
cake


In a message dated 09/18/2003 2:55:32 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
Csubstance@aol.com writes:

> More than 90 percent of adults in the world have done just fine without
> having their educations stopped by an algebra gate, including the ones who
> are now
> clamoring for the erection of that gate

True, 90 % of people aren't doctors, 90% aren't engineers. The question is
when this should be decided. Algebra in 8th grade means proper preparation
in
the preceding grades. By emphasizing the fact that most of us don't need a
whole
lot of it  it in our adult lives, you are de-emphasizing the fact that for
generations millions have been precluded from occupations they could have
done
well at because around 2nd or 3rd grade someone decided that they didn't
have
the "necessaries'" and weren't worth the necessary effort to eventually
succeed
at such an occupation.

Linda