+225 The whole "you use this math in real life" is a load of crap. The reason we're required to learn algebra is to strengthen our logical ability, which IS important in real life, amirite?

by Anonymous 12 years ago

That's what all my teachers say. "You're learning skills, not content."

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Numerous professions require advanced mathematics. And everyone will utilize their algebra knowledge at least once in their life, considering it's extremely simple and can be used in a wide variety of situations.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

I think geometry and algebra are helpful, but unless you're specifically going into a field that requires it, things like Calculus can't really be applied much. I know that some medical schools require you to take Calculus, but you won't really need it like you'll need Algebra. They use it to see which students can think the way Calculus requires you to, and they want smart people who can pass the class.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Uhhh.. you cant do Calculus without Algebra. Just like you can't read if you don't know the alphabet.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

I'm aware. I'm taking Calculus. I'm just saying that I think SOME forms of math like Algebra are necessary, but the same does not go for Calc or Trig unless you're going into a profession that needs it. I can't see how I'm going to use Calculus in life like my teacher says. The majority of medical schools will accept college Algebra. It's only the top-notch ones that want Calculus, but it's really not necessary for a doctor or a lawyer to know how to find the anti-derivative.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Oh oops I'm sorry, I just realized I must have read your comment too quickly because I thought you said you need things like Calculus, but not Algebra methods, which made no sense. Yeah, I'm taking Calculus too, and I agree that just the logic and understanding of the concepts of practical applications, like optimizing results and such, that is necessary to get good grades in such classes is indubitably useful.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

No problem. The thing I can't get about Calculus is the conceptual part, so I wonder if If I'll get anything out of it. I'm fine with the finite formulaic stuff, though.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Almost all occupations use math in some form, so no, the whole "you use this math in real life" is not a load of crap.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

wow...I have been slacking off on math for the past couple years.... I know it's to emphasize rationality but...it gets boring as fuck lol and i just review over it during the summer so...it's all good?

by Anonymous 12 years ago