Do you worry about your teenager succeeding in Algebra? Do you wonder how you will complete every assignment as outlined for homeschool Algebra?
If you are a parent or a person who assists in homeschool co-op groups, you are quite familiar with the anxiety that comes with the topic of Algebra. Do not fear. Just like successfully creating a 3-layer cake, students can experience success in Algebra. Keep reading to discover the 3 keys to homeschool Algebra success.
Algebra Success and Cake
First, when making a three-layered cake, you must have three layers of cake to build with. If you do not have three layers, it will not be a three-layered cake, meaning that there must be a bottom, middle, and top layer. Most three-layer cakes include a filling that successfully binds all layers together. Homeschool Algebra also requires successful layers of understanding to support each new layer of Algebra concepts.
Key # 1: Firm Foundations
A. Key # 1: Prior Concepts for Homeschool Algebra
Furthermore, a three-layered cake needs a base upon which to be built. Similarly, Algebra is the same. Prior to tackling Algebra concepts, students must have a thorough understanding of fraction operations and the ability to convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages. Why? These numbers continuously appear in Algebra.
B. Cause of Failure and Frustration
In addition, the cause of failure and frustration in Algebra is most often due to students struggling to understand concepts from prior Algebra sections, the foundations meant to prepare for the next concept. It is no wonder that students become so frustrated. As they progress from one section to the next, there are more holes in their understanding.
C. Passing Grade Concept
Likewise, another concept to consider: The Passing Grade Concept. This concept expresses that passing is anywhere between 70 % to 100%. If a score on an Algebra test is 70%, this is considered a passing score.
On the other hand, what 70% really means is that the student lacks 30% understanding of the concepts covered. In three-layered cake terms, this would mean that 30% of the first layer of cake is missing.
A score of 70 %
means that the student
LACKS
30 % understanding.
Furthermore, let’s consider that 70 % represents only the first Algebra test. Should the student continue to the next section, it would not be unusual to see that the next test score would be 70% or less, as Algebra, like three-layered cakes, builds on the foundation prior to it.
Next, let’s consider a key for success that will promote well-formed layers of understanding, venturing from one Algebra concept to the next.
Key # 2: Understanding
Do you remember learning a new, challenging skill from someone who took their time to make sure you were confident with every step of the skill from the beginning to the end? I am talking about learning from someone who made you do the same first step several times before moving to the next step. You likely thought it was a bit much. On the other hand, at the end of the training, you performed the task with noted confidence. With such confidence, you may have considered taking an advanced class.
Likewise, thoroughly understanding each section of Algebra leads to student success and confidence to tackle the next concept. Test scores will likely run an average of 95 – 100% when students thoroughly understand.
Key # 3: Time: Homeschool Algebra Success
Algebra requires time. Students must spend five days a week practicing Algebra concepts. The repetition of these materials from one day to the next reinforces the practice of the day before. This time period may include reviewing notes, videos, or other learning materials. Practice must follow. Before the test, practice explaining the steps required to complete the concept. If a student can explain these concepts, they are ready to take the test and will score well.
Furthermore, you may be worried about finishing before the end of the school year. No worries. If your teen is taking Algebra 1 for the first year of high school math, you have the next three years to work that out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Algebra success is dependent on three ideas: firm foundations, understanding, and time.
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