FCPS algebra 1 vs AoPS introduction to algebra
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Anonymous
| Is the FCPS algebra 1 equivalent to AoPS introduction to algebra in terms of coverage and difficulty level? |
Anonymous
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It is the same in terms of coverage in the sense that all topics from the FCPS Algebra 1 course will be covered in the AOPS course. However, AOPS is orders of magnitude harder/deeper. Basically, in FCPS you are told these are the Vieta formulas, etc. and in AOPS you are shown how they are derived, and then you are expected to be able to apply that knowledge and understanding to solve problems.
FWIW my kid took the AOPS course while taking Alg 1 AAP/HN and we discussed exactly this difference. Hope this helps. |
Anonymous
This is super helpful, exactly what we are looking for, thanks a lot!
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Anonymous
What school? Not my DS's experience at a non-TJ-mania school. |
Anonymous
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AoPS Introduction to Algebra includes lots of algebra 2 topics, and the problems are much more difficult than in any other introductory algebra text I've seen.
https://s3.amazonaws.com/aops-cdn.artofproblemsolving.com/products/intro-algebra/toc.pdf https://s3.amazonaws.com/aops-cdn.artofproblemsolving.com/products/intro-algebra/exc1.pdf https://s3.amazonaws.com/aops-cdn.artofproblemsolving.com/products/intro-algebra/exc2.pdf https://s3.amazonaws.com/aops-cdn.artofproblemsolving.com/products/intro-algebra/exc3.pdf Some course providers even use the second half of text for algebra 2: and 2: https://www.wtmacademy.com/course/algebra-ii-aops/ |
Anonymous
I don't know about FCPS algebra 1, but AoPS introduction to algebra doesn't cover vieta's formulas (intermediate algebra does). |
Anonymous
For the links provided above, is that a book that is for sale? Or is this from a class/school? The explanations for answers seemed really helpful. |
Anonymous
Anonymous
PP you are responding to. Fair point - my kid is in Alg 2 HN and Intermediate Alg AOPS this year so this was the first thing that came to mind but you get the point - derive vs provide as given. |
Anonymous
Sure it does, it's section 10.4 in the AoPS book. They just don't call them by the name Vieta, but the whole section involves applying them to solve various problems. |
Anonymous
No chance you'll see Vieta's in FCPS... |
Anonymous
| I dunno, we were not impressed with AOPS. My kid took the online Algebra 1 class over the summer of 2021. The instructor taught 100% using message board, as if they were afraid that people would record their voice. Pretty bizarre. In terms of content, AOPS did not cover basic fundamentals. Instead they assumed that kids knew them and spent most of the time solving word problems. I pulled my kid out after 3 weeks of this nonsense. |
Anonymous
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We are at RSM. RSM’s program has 3 years of Algebra, Prealgebra in 6th grade, Algebra in 7th, and Algebra II in 8th. It also offers 3 years of Geometry. The Geometry class is an hour a week while Algebra is 2 hours a week.
Very different program then the AoPS but DS has enjoyed both programs, he switched from AoPS to RSM because he wanted in person and a shorter drive. We give him the same choices every year and he has stuck with RSM. |
Anonymous
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Pro tip:
It’s very common for FCPS middle/high math teachers to use AoPS problems on tests. As in the exact problem - not even changing the numbers. It’s incredibly lazy, probably violates copyright protections and gives kids who take AoPS an even stronger leg up. |
Anonymous
This is exactly how the AoPS online classes work. Did you not read the course description? It’s a very effective method to teach motivated and mature students, but does not work at all for younger students The inperson classes might be better for your child. |