Teach Your Kids Algebra: The Quadratic Formula

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joe_Pagano]Joe Pagano

When I first saw the quadratic formula, I was amazed that there existed such a thing no less a way to derive this elegant formula. For those who remember, this formula gives a sure-fire way of getting the solution to those things we call quadratic, or second-degree equations, in mathematics. For many students, this formula is a nightmare of grand proportions and its mastery seems no more probable than striking it rich with the lottery. However, with some novel techniques and some different approaches, the mastery of this formula—which provides a linchpin to understanding algebra on a deeper level—becomes a walk in the park.

In fairness to the readers out there who are not familiar with my writings and teachings, let me point out to them that getting to the heart of the matter has always been my prime focus in whatever subject or course I am teaching. The core of the Wiz Kid Teaching Philosophy, which I have created and catalogued over the past twenty years or so, hinges on getting right to the heart of the matter. Another way of putting this, albeit more luridly, is that I like to go right for the jugular. Such is the case in teaching the quadratic formula.

In my Wiz Kid Algebracadabra series, I teach the method of quadratic compression. Basically, this method “chunks” the quadratic formula down to pieces, each of which is easily digested by the student. The quadratic formula is indeed a mouthful; however, the chunked-down version is quite manageable. Moreover, once students see this method, they start to realize that they can apply this methodology to other areas of their studies, coming out ahead of the pack and obviating much of their frustration and confusion.

The beauty of the Method of Quadratic Compression is that it takes a difficult formula and decomposes it into a few easy pieces. Once students see this, they are no longer intimidated by this famous formula; moreover, they are less inclined to be intimidated in the future by newly introduced formulas and equations. Now what could be better than that. No fear equals enhanced scholastic success. And you know what parents?: when your kids do well in school, you can go about your life with less headaches. That’s a deal everyone can live with.

See more at [http://www.mathbyjoe.com/catalog/item/2924777/3476352.htm]Algebra Ebook and [http://www.mathbyjoe.com/page/page/2908604.htm]Help with Math

Joe is a prolific writer of self-help and educational material and an award-winning former teacher of both college and high school mathematics. Under the penname, JC Page, Joe authored Arithmetic Magic, the little classic on the ABC’s of arithmetic. Joe is also author of the charming self-help ebook, Making a Good Impression Every Time: The Secret to Instant Popularity; the original collection of poetry, Poems for the Mathematically Insecure, and the short but highly effective fraction troubleshooter Fractions for the Faint of Heart. The diverse genre of his writings (novel, short story, essay, script, and poetry)—particularly in regard to its educational flavor— continues to captivate readers and to earn him recognition.

Joe propagates his teaching philosophy through his articles and books and is dedicated to helping educate children living in impoverished countries. Toward this end, he donates a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every ebook. For more information go to http://www.mathbyjoe.com

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