How does one crush Algebra? Help!!

Hi all,
Recently, I asked if it was possible to rush an online course and take all exams qualifying for an AS CIS programme in months. Little did I know that almighty Algebra would pin me down at a tight end. While I have been studying the college texts sent to me ALGEBRA FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS by Gustafson Frisk, I found out that, my very weak foundation in mathematics leaves almost nothing to build on. I don't know if there are others who took Algebra and experienced difficulties initially. Please, could such persons advise me on how to crush this hydra-headed demon on my way? Maybe there is some very smart way for a 34-year old working and married chap- to crush algebra. Thanks for your inputs

 

ALEKS is a good and very cheap resource that may help ALEKS for Higher Education In fact if your destination is one of the Big 3 you can actually use ALEKS for credit.

I also found the Mathway tool to be invaluable Mathway: Math Problem Solver

Is straighterline an option for you? Its a manageable and predictable option. Online College Courses - Take College Courses Through Our Distance Learning Courses - StraighterLine

 

Try Khan Academy:

Khan Academy

Short 10 minute videos on any math topic possible.

 

Thank you very much for your recommendations. I, definitely will run to those sites and try to find my feet strong in Algebra through them.

 

I'm not a Math teacher (although I might be someday) but here's what I think. There are two basic causes for not doing well in algebra (or any other kind of mathematics for that matter). The first is a failure to grasp the fundamental principles (you hinted at this in your post). In this case it's actually worth the time to go back to the beginning and "solve for X." 6X = 12 Start there and work your way up. DON'T SKIP STEPS! Everyone hates the word problems (A train leaves Boston traveling 55 miles per hour . . .) but these problems are designed specifically to test your understanding of the underlying concepts. You want to get to a point where you can look at the problem and say to yourself "OK, this problem is testing my knowledge of ___."

The second major pitfall is a problem with attention to detail. Having a good understanding of the basic concepts will not help that much if your attention fails and you make a procedural error. It's difficult, especially in testing situations, to maintain good concentration throughout. I suggest that if this is a part of the problem then you pay attention to the specific thoughts that are coming into your mind while you are working. We all get random thoughts that distract our attention but being able to push some of these aside, at times, becomes important for success.

 

Thank you, that was so motivating. You are right- there are no two ways about it than to go to the drawing board and start from the basis...

 

iTunes University has some great resources for bettering your understanding of algebra.

 

There is also purplemath; lastly, I found "The Standard Deviants" very helpful when I needed to brush up my algebra - check them out, they really simplify things and break it down.. may even be available in your local library..

 

Wao, never heard about Itunes University. I should check that out as well. Thanks a lot.

 

Math.com - World of Math Online has some resources. In addition, I have found that most professors (even DL) are open to tutoring provided you make arrangements. (or bring candy)


1933: Einstein in Princeton

 

Besides our Fourm members' commendation, I would recommend you to purchase a College Algebra textbook than run your car over....just crush it as you mean it. J/K
----Have a wonderful weekend.

Honestly, you just learn from Khan Academy, you'll have enough knowledge to take CLEP exam on College Algebra.

 

Those ALEKS courses have been ACE evaluated, right?

 

ACE for credit or direct to the Big 3. ACE CREDIT | The National Guide to College Credit for Workforce Training

 

Thanks to you all. All advice(S) are really appreciated. Already I have a textbook- College Algebra -the size of a car. I went through Purplemaths, Khan Academy and others and I think as time goes on, I should find my feet. Have a nice weekend all.

 

I had the same problem....I am weak in math and I know I have to take algebra classes for my degree. Thanks for all the information.

 

I have to practically kick-off my shoes to count to 11, but I've made it through College Algebra and 2 graduate Statistics courses (with 1 more to go), so it can be done.

 

Thanks Bruce for the reassurance. I hated math throughout my school years and I dread doing algebra for my degree but after reading though these posts I am sure I can do it too.

 

Yes, you can do it. Here is a awesome website that is a tremendous help: Khan Academy The guy who made the numerous videos on this site is a master at explaining things and there is a video there to show you how to do anything there is in algebra. Sometimes it takes a little searching to find the right video, but it is worth the effort. You can watch the video again and again until you understand the concept.

I even used this site to help me with a couple issues I had in doctoral level statistics.

 

A very good site for a variety of subjects, including algebra: HippoCampus - Homework and Study Help - Free help with your algebra, biology, environmental science, American government, US history, physics and religion homework

They link to Khan, but make sure to sit through the NROC presentations. The combination of the NROC presentations, Khan and instructors just helped my fiancee score 100% on her Mechanics final & get an A in the course. She had a nervous breakdown halfway through the semester, resigned to the fact that she will fail.

 

And what exactly does it mean to "crush" Algebra?