How Can I Deepen My Understanding of High School Level Mathematics?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Not millenial
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Study
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges faced in understanding mathematics at a high school level, particularly in relation to memorization versus comprehension. The individual expresses a solid grasp of applied mathematics but struggles with traditional mathematics, feeling that they often memorize methods without fully understanding the underlying concepts. They seek guidance on how to delve deeper into mathematics without venturing into college-level complexity, especially as they prepare to start Calculus. A specific example is mentioned regarding the quadratic formula, where the individual recognizes the formula's utility but feels a lack of deeper understanding. The conversation highlights a desire for resources or strategies that promote a more profound comprehension of mathematical principles rather than rote memorization.
Not millenial
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hello, I'm studying Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Physics at something roughly slightly less detailed than a-levels (Leaving Certificate). The applied mathematics isn't a problem at all, and the "understanding" clicks properly for me. However, in mathematics I find that it sometimes comes down to memorizing methods than a true understanding. I don't want to go into college level detail, and we haven't started Calculus yet (we will be doing it soon). I'm just looking at general pointers for going into slightly more detailed mathematics, with more opportunity for understanding at roughly the A-level/High School level.

I've looked around and haven't seen anything specific to this, sorry if I'm wrong.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Not millenial said:
Hello, I'm studying Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Physics at something roughly slightly less detailed than a-levels (Leaving Certificate). The applied mathematics isn't a problem at all, and the "understanding" clicks properly for me. However, in mathematics I find that it sometimes comes down to memorizing methods than a true understanding. I don't want to go into college level detail, and we haven't started Calculus yet (we will be doing it soon). I'm just looking at general pointers for going into slightly more detailed mathematics, with more opportunity for understanding at roughly the A-level/High School level.

I've looked around and haven't seen anything specific to this, sorry if I'm wrong.

Can you give an example where you feel you are memorising the mathematics without understanding?
 
PeroK said:
Can you give an example where you feel you are memorising the mathematics without understanding?
It's not even like that, it's like I'm memorizing methods - I understand why they work but I just feel like I'm missing something. I don't know how to explain it. There was a piece in algebra to do with the minus b formula, where you use the -b2+4ac just to figure something out. I'll have a look for it.
 

Thread 'Self Learning Math/Physics'

Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
View full post »

Thread 'Applied Math PhD candidate but I hate group theory'

TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...
View full post »

Similar threads

Studying How to self-study physics past High School Level?
3
Replies
102
Views
5K
Studying How to study for Electromagnetism or something else in high school level?
Replies
4
Views
2K
Programs Help me decide: physics or chemistry?
Replies
43
Views
7K
Other How to self study mathematics for the sake of the subject?
Replies
3
Views
1K
Programs What subject is better for an aspiring experimental physicist?
Replies
19
Views
4K
Admissions Advice to enhance my profile for grad school
Replies
2
Views
2K
Admissions Statement of purpose critique request (high-energy theory PhD)
Replies
0
Views
2K
Studying Ready to start Calculus (I think), but unsure where to start
Replies
29
Views
2K
Other Can I Study Physics? A-Levels, GCSEs & University
Replies
4
Views
2K
Should I skip labs/experiments for Mathematical Physics program?
Replies
6
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top