How is math education in the US structured ? Pre algebra , calc etc

In summary: After that you would take calculus depending on your major. Linear Algebra is also a big topic in many math courses. Differential Equations is a common course in physics and engineering courses.
  • #1
urbano
36
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I wanting to do some papers at university, however I have long been out of high school and never really don math or science at high school.

As an adult I am now keen to pursue some math papers and was wondering what kind of background I need. I have looked through various web pages and they refer to thing like pre-calc, AB calc, Algebra 1 and 2 etc. I am not in the US but believe these may give me good guidelines as to what I need to know to be able to handle math at university. I don't want to major , just want do some calc, stats, analysis and linear algebra stuff.

I was wondering in what sequence do things like pre algebra , pre calc, Algebra 1 and etc go ?
 
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  • #2
I am sorry, are you looking to publish papers on mathematics? I am a bit confused as to what you are asking. For University you can take a placement test to see where you lie in your mathematics ability. You may have to start in an intermediate algebra type class (algebra 1 and 2) and then take courses in trigonometry and precalculus (where I started) before you go on the typical calculus sequence ( single and multivariable) then other courses such as linear algebra and differential equations. All the math courses I have mentioned appear to be essential to any math or physics program you attend. There are typically lower division and then you will have a multitude more classes in the upper division.
 
  • #3
TheKracken said:
I am sorry, are you looking to publish papers on mathematics? I am a bit confused as to what you are asking. For University you can take a placement test to see where you lie in your mathematics ability. You may have to start in an intermediate algebra type class (algebra 1 and 2) and then take courses in trigonometry and precalculus (where I started) before you go on the typical calculus sequence ( single and multivariable) then other courses such as linear algebra and differential equations. All the math courses I have mentioned appear to be essential to any math or physics program you attend. There are typically lower division and then you will have a multitude more classes in the upper division.

That is the kind of sequencing to be expected.
Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calc&Analytic Geom1, Calc&analytic Geom 2, Calc&Analytic Geom3 (which is "Intermediate" or "Multivariable" Calculus), and some people do an additional introductory combination course of linear algebra and differential equations.
 
  • #4
Start with these videos, they are pretty good to get you ready for algebra. See how you go with that for now, and please be honest if you find something there difficult. But if you get through it, you will be ready for some serious algebra.

Here are some more videos about arithmetic in case you need them.
 
  • #5
TheKracken said:
I am sorry, are you looking to publish papers on mathematics? I am a bit confused as to what you are asking.

I was trying to establish form high school up to the pint where you are about to start university, in what order are the maths classes taught.

where I live they are just taught as level 1, 2 and 3. But I left school long before these were introduced so have idea what they refer to.
 
  • #6
Well most Universities would start their freshman on either calculus 1,2,3 depending if they came in with AP Calculus credit or not. Before Calculus you should have algebra 1 and 2 done as well as trig and a pre calculus class.
 

1. What are the different levels of math education in the US?

The math education structure in the US typically starts with pre-algebra in middle school, followed by algebra and geometry in high school. After that, students can take advanced courses such as trigonometry, pre-calculus, and calculus.

2. Are there any prerequisites for taking advanced math courses?

Yes, most high schools require students to pass algebra and geometry before taking higher level math courses. Some schools may also have placement tests to determine if a student is ready for advanced math.

3. How is math education taught in the US?

Math education in the US is primarily taught through a combination of lectures, practice problems, and assignments. Teachers may also use technology and hands-on activities to help students understand mathematical concepts.

4. Are there any standardized tests for math education in the US?

Yes, there are several standardized tests that measure students' proficiency in math, such as the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. These tests are often used for college admissions and can also determine if a student is eligible for advanced math courses.

5. How is the US math education system compared to other countries?

The US math education system has been a topic of debate, with some studies showing that American students lag behind their peers in other countries. However, the structure and curriculum of math education in the US can vary significantly between states and schools, making it difficult to make a direct comparison.

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