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How To Teach Algebraic Closure
Thanks to Kellie D for this question: “How do I know if a set is closed under the rule of addition, same question for multiplication?” Closure under addition or multiplication is a concept from Abstract Algebra that’s taught in not-so-abstract Algebra classes. It can be intuitive, if taught properly. You first have to start with
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Confessions of a Calculator Addict
I remember being allowed in Jr. High to use the calculator to “check my work.” Soon after I learned that the books in High School had the answers in the back! It was like condoned cheating! How could I go wrong with the magic box and the answers given to me straight from the publisher?
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How to Know When a Kid is Confused
Listening to the words won’t tell you if a kid is confused in math – but watching their faces will. Here’s an example.
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7 Real “How to Succeed in Math” Tips
Here are some tips that math students can and will use – not pie-in-the-sky tips made up by an educator that nobody really uses!
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How to Use Prime Factors to Cancel Fractions
I previously posted about prime factors and about using them in multiplication. Now we’ve got fractions to handle. Before we get in too deep, first let me note the main reason why we do this with arithmetic. In algebra, students will be asked to take a rational expression, factor it and reduce it like this:
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How to Remember Exponent Rules without Brain Ooze
Exponent rules are hard. Well, they are hard to remember, anyhow. But there’s an easy way that won’t make your brain ooze – and that’s doing a mini-experiment each time you have to deal with them.
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How to Use Prime Factoring to Win Friends and Influence People
Alright, you might not win friends with this, but the more you can do arithmetic in your head… well… okay, you can’t influence people with it either. Regardless, it’s handy to know and helps with multiplication.
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2 Ways to Factor Numbers into Primes
Factoring is traditionally considered an “f-word” for students of math. But it really has its good sides. First, here’s two ways to do it with regular numbers.
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How to Check if a Number is Divisible by 3 or 9
Can you quickly tell if a number is divisible by 3 or by 9? With this trick you can impress everyone – well, not EVERYone, but a few anyhow.
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How to Free Your Students from Math Anger
Are you sick of being a prisoner to math anxiety, snide comments of math geeks and angry comments of other math haters? Declare your independence!
About MathFour.com
I’m Bon Crowder and the photos above are both of me – in 1989 and today. I’m a Generation X mom of Generation Z kids. I began peer tutoring in high school in 1984.
MathFour.com is the “today” version of me helping peers be comfortable in math. If you’re a Gen-X parent, you’re in the right place!
Wanna connect? Give me a call at 713-557-8048.