scrapbookbuzz Posted November 19, 2013 Share Posted November 19, 2013 How necessary is it, really, to know the names of the algebraic properties (multiplicative, substitution, symmetric, inverse, transitive, etc) if you're not going into a math field? Helping my daughter understand her algebra, I'm lost on the importance of these terms. In my day to day life I come across algebra problems all the time, but not the need to know the names of the properties being used. She is going into a science field. But right now, she's 15yo, a freshman, and an Aspie who already struggles with other challenges such as dyslexia and spelling. I know if we could move beyond these, she would probably do better. Spelling and remembering the names of math things tend to trip her up. Is it really necessary to remember/memorize these properties or can we just move on? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Teachin'Mine Posted November 19, 2013 Share Posted November 19, 2013 Personally, if she knows how to solve the problem, I'd let her move on. Some questions on standardized tests will ask questions related to the different properties, but there probably aren't many. I think that with the more she uses the properties, the more that she will get to know them without having to specifically memorize their definition. I would probably just review them briefly once a week or so, as she may absorb them better over time. Just my thoughts. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted November 19, 2013 Share Posted November 19, 2013 I consider knowing those names completely unimportant. She needs to know how to apply those properties in problem solving, but that is entirely sufficient. I have no idea what some of these terms mean, but it has not prevented me from successfully completing a PhD in theoretical physics. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jann in TX Posted November 19, 2013 Share Posted November 19, 2013 I learned Algebra without knowing the formal names of the properties... BUT it really hurt me in my college math classes as the profs used them! I had to spend extra time remediating the vocabulary... I try to use them when I am teaching-- emphasis on the reason/application not the vocabulary. In Geometry we work Algebraic proofs before formal proofs. Most of my students learn the terms/vocabulary 'for the first time' then. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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