Reply to Jay Matthews: VMPI Probably Will Keep Tracking Just Because of Parent Pressure

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Reply to "Jay Matthews: VMPI Probably Will Keep Tracking Just Because of Parent Pressure"

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]
I think a change like this makes a lot of sense (From the article):

[quote]Algebra II is frequently combined with trigonometry in the third year of high school math. It covers linear equations, functions, exponential and logarithmic expressions and other topics. It is required for graduation in 20 states (not including Virginia) and the District of Columbia. But math education experts such as Phil Daro and Harold Asturias have suggested giving students the option of taking data science or quantitative reasoning instead.[/quote]

I also like the idea of teaching math more conceptually/providing more of the theory behind it.[/quote]

This would mean Algebra 2 is not covered by 10th grade and kids would not be able to take calculus in high school.  VMPI is giving assurances that algebra 2 is part of Math 8-10, but I think it is more likely algebra 2 is being mostly dropped.  They originally had precalculus as just a half year course, and have said in the videos that it really isn't needed in high school.[/quote]

[b]My kid does not need calculus and will not be heading in a STEM direction.[/b] I'd rather they have the option for something they may actually encounter in the real world and basic data analytics/quantitative reasoning is that IMO. quoted text even says it would an OPTION, not elimination of Algebra II altogether.[/quote]

That’s a pity. I hope s/he reconsiders.[b] I think of exposure to calculus to be something we should provide to everyone[/b]. It is so fundamental to how we understand the world these days.  If your kid is reasonably academically capable, I would encourage them to take an intro calc course somewhere along their educational journey just so they understand how science is put together. [/quote]

I teach HS math and I completely disagree with this statement. Statistics is orders of magnitude more useful for most people, who will have absolutely zero use for calculus the rest of their lives.[/quote]

When do you "need" literature?  When do you "need" a foreign language?  I happen to think that a fully educated person should have some exposure to calculus.  Sure, you can take a research stats course that obscures the fundamental linkages to calculus.  Or you can take physics or chemistry without calculus.  But appreciating calculus would give you such a deeper understanding of the fields that make up modern technology.  And I believe that those that can, should.[/quote]

DP.  You need literature if you have any intention of being a well-rounded, cultured person.  You need foreign language if you have any desire to study and work in international relations or intelligence.  Has your kid taken five years of a foreign language?  No?  That’s a pity.  They are completely missing the chance to communicate fluently with non-English speakers.  Do they have any desire to live in a foreign country?  Good luck without knowing the language.

In short, not taking calculus does not adversely affect non-STEM majors in any way.  However, being ignorant of great literature or foreign languages just makes anyone... ignorant.[/quote]

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