Is algebra necessary? A reply to Andrew Hacker

Peter Flom
Sep 7, 2018 · 3 min read

Is Algebra Necessary?

In the New York Times for July 28, 2012 Andrew Hacker wrote an article entitled “Is Algebra Necessary?” and concluding that it was not. His argument can be summarized as follows (the article is here: The New York Times)

  • Math is hard, algebra is especially hard
  • Many children fail it
  • It has limited applicability to most people’s lives after school
  • Therefore, it should not be required.

Keep the story going. Sign up for an extra free read.

You've completed your member preview for this month, but when you sign up for a free Medium account, you get one more story.
Already have an account?

Peter Flom

Written by

Freelance statistician (www.statisticalanalysisconsulting.com). Learning disabled adult (www.IAmLearningDisabled.com). 2E. Father. Active on Quora. Liberal.

Q.E.D.

Q.E.D.

Reimagining the learning and teaching of mathematics

Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade