Dr. Algebra

In recent years, we all have witnessed a general decline in math and algebra skills.  Its no longer limited to teenagers but has progressed to young people now entering the work-force.  Example:  I recently had a $24 co-pay for a doctor visit.  I gave the new employee behind the counter $40 in cash.  She had to get help to figure out how much change to return!!!   How can this be?  As a former college professor and math tutor, my conclusion this is the result of an intentional “dumbing down” of students in the United States. Take that in whatever capacity you like.

Anyhow, I now see that many students are very weak in math fundamentals which leads to difficulties in algebra and more advanced topics).  Students can’t be expected to focus on the topic of the day when they are focused on trying to figure out how to multiply two numbers vertically.  They can’t see the trees because the grass gets in the way…. 

Today, math is generally taught in a very different way than it was years ago.  Rigor seems to have been replaced with teaching tricks, shortcuts, and other methods that are useful only in particular situations.  Fundamental topics such as cancelling, factoring, order of operations, and manipulating fraction are generally weak.  Additionally, the use of calculators to multiply things like 7 x 7  lead to an inability to judge the rough correctness of an answer.   

In any case, Dr. Algebra aims to help students catch up, or excel, by presenting topical lessons in several different ways.  Lessons are generally setup as follows:

• • Neatly presented topics.  Detailed coverage of a single topic.
  • Examples.  One or more videos showing worked out examples on the particular topic of interest.  A common complaint is that there are  not enough examples in regular class so we try to include lots. 
  • Worksheets.  Printable problem sets on the topic
    • Think of these as un-graded homework assignments. 
    • (Worksheets will be added as they are completed)
  • Solved Worksheets.  Solutions to the worksheets.  Many problems are worked out using multiple methods.  (Solutions will be added as they are completed)
  • Video lessons.  These cover the topic in a fun way using a whiteboard and verbally reinforce the printed lesson.
    • (Videos will be added as they are completed)
  • Online Quiz.  This section will be coming soon.

Enjoy

Dr. Algebra