Changes

Algebra is part of the "mental furniture" of scientists, engineers, and economists and is used throughout college courses in these subjects. It forms part of the conceptual background, even when no equations appear on the textbook page. As such, algebra is often described as a "gatekeeper course."<ref>[http://www.nwrel.org/nwreport/2005-03/4-algebra.html Journal Promotes Algebra for All], Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory</ref>. Problems with algebra can bar the door to a wide range of interesting career options.

Algebra is part of the "mental furniture" of scientists, engineers, and economists and is used throughout college courses in these subjects. It forms part of the conceptual background, even when no equations appear on the textbook page. As such, algebra is often described as a "gatekeeper course."<ref>[http://www.nwrel.org/nwreport/2005-03/4-algebra.html Journal Promotes Algebra for All], Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory</ref>. Problems with algebra can bar the door to a wide range of interesting career options.

Some students who are able to relate to the visual nature of geometry suffer "math anxiety" when confronted with the pure abstractions and symbolism of algebra. High school students who feel that are "just not mathematical," don't "get" algebra and never will, should discuss the possibility of "math anxiety" with their parents.

Some students who are able to relate to the visual nature of geometry suffer "math anxiety" when confronted with the pure abstractions and symbolism of algebra. High school students who feel they are "just not mathematical," don't "get" algebra and never will, should discuss the possibility of "math anxiety" with their parents.

==Notes and references==

==Notes and references==