Expert Tips for Tutoring Algebra: Avoiding Common Mistakes

In summary, the person is a physics major and is helping friends in college algebra who are struggling with conceptual understanding of equations. They are making sign mistakes and having trouble with radicals. The solution is to teach them the properties of real numbers and equality, as well as the laws of exponents. The shortcut to solving equations is to do the inverse operation to both sides, instead of "moving" things from one side to the other.
  • #1
harvellt
95
0
Im not a math master yet. I'm a physics major in calc. 3 at the moment and I am trying to help a couple friends in college algebra. They both have this conceptual problem of thinking they are "moving" stuff from one side of the equation. It is causing tons of sign mistakes and causing a lot of trouble with radicals and such.
Does anyone have some good examples that show your just doing the same thing to both sides of the equation, or is the best way to do a lot of examples and make the "show all their work'?
Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Your friends in College Algebra studied and should have mastered some important properties of Real Numbers and properties of equality and of inequality part-way into their study of Intermediate Algebra; even possibly before they finished Introductory Algebra. Spend time reteaching your friends the commutative and associative properties for addition and multiplication, the distribution property, the identity properties, and the ...can not remember what you call them... properties of equality and inequality. Also substitution principle. They need to know the properties and to have acquired the associated skills, so maybe you can just reteach them to your friends. You might also give a review of laws of exponents. Pick any book you like to use for teaching (reteaching) these ideas and skills.

Really, if these College Algebra students are having the trouble as you have described, the earned prerequisites for the course are dubious. (Maybe "dubious" is the wrong choice of word.)
 
  • #3
Of course you are really doing the same thing to both sides. But a short cut is to cancel the operation and do the opposite operation to the other side. This always gives you the right sign and takes less thought and time.
 
  • #4
harvellt said:
Im not a math master yet. I'm a physics major in calc. 3 at the moment and I am trying to help a couple friends in college algebra. They both have this conceptual problem of thinking they are "moving" stuff from one side of the equation. It is causing tons of sign mistakes and causing a lot of trouble with radicals and such.
Does anyone have some good examples that show your just doing the same thing to both sides of the equation, or is the best way to do a lot of examples and make the "show all their work'?
Thanks!

If that's the case then don't "move" stuff from one side to the other.

Do the inverse operation to BOTH sides.

say x+2=4
x+2-2=4-2 because you are trying to ISOLATE x by itself
which leaves you with x=2
 

1. What are some common mistakes made when tutoring algebra?

Common mistakes in tutoring algebra include not thoroughly understanding the material, not providing enough practice problems, not explaining concepts clearly, not addressing students' individual learning styles, and not reviewing previous material before moving on.

2. How can I avoid making these mistakes when tutoring algebra?

To avoid these mistakes, make sure to have a strong understanding of the material yourself, provide ample practice problems for students to work through, explain concepts in different ways to cater to different learning styles, regularly review previous material, and actively listen to and address students' questions and concerns.

3. What are some strategies for effectively tutoring algebra?

Some effective strategies for tutoring algebra include breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable steps, using real-world examples to make the material more relatable, providing visual aids and demonstrations, and encouraging students to ask questions and actively participate in the learning process.

4. How can I help struggling students improve their skills in algebra?

To help struggling students improve in algebra, it is important to identify and address their specific challenges and areas of weakness. This could involve providing additional practice problems, offering one-on-one tutoring sessions, or using alternative teaching methods to explain difficult concepts.

5. Are there any resources or tools that can assist with tutoring algebra?

Yes, there are many resources and tools that can assist with tutoring algebra, such as online practice problems and quizzes, interactive learning software, educational websites, and study guides. Additionally, collaborating with other tutors and educators can also be a valuable resource for sharing tips and strategies.

Similar threads

Studying I have some epic math goals and creating a study plan
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
11
Views
1K
Tips for Tutoring Math: From College Algebra to Differential Equations
    • STEM Educators and Teaching
Replies
4
Views
4K
B Missing out on intermediate algebraic steps
    • General Math
Replies
23
Views
1K
Using a Problem Solving Technique for a simple word problem
    • STEM Educators and Teaching
Replies
24
Views
2K
Courses Would Calc 3 + Engineering Physics 1 be too much for Summer?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
5
Views
2K
Schools Struggling with first year college (maths/physics)
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
5
Views
2K
Tutoring Physics? (one bad experience, need to improve)
    • STEM Educators and Teaching
Replies
18
Views
4K
Any professional tutors here? Chemistry emphasis?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
2K
Struggling in Precalculus: How to Get Back on Track for a Successful Math Career
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
3K
Are master's 'easier' to get into than PhD?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
1
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top