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Old 03-07-2007, 06:53 PM
PairTheBoard PairTheBoard is offline
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Join Date: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,460
Default Re: Which Book Should I Write Next?

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the Algebra book would do the most for the common good

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Why are people saying this?

Another algebra book is going to make a difference?

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EXACTLY!

Who gives a [censored] if you can teach mentally retarded kids algebra?

It will make zero difference considering the fact that if a human isn't smart enough to learn an extremely simple subject like algebra, chances are VERY high he will never be in a position to use it the rest of his life anyways.

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I'm sorry to say that there is some truth to this. The book I had in mind could not replace a textbook. It would be too easy and boring for anyone above average in math ability. It would greatly decrease the chances that less talented students would flunk the class if they used it as a supplement. And if that became known it would sell well. But it would not be suitable for brighter kids unless it was actually given to them when they were ten.

Does the above change anyone's mind?

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I think its greatest value would be for teaching bright 8,9 or 10 year olds who are curious about the subject. I wanted to learn algebra when I was 10 but I couldn't find anyone to teach me. My dad tried to show me a couple of things he knew more or less by rote but couldn't really explain. Who knows what might have happened if I'd had your book.

Once you finish the book, the next step is converting the ideas to an interactive computer software tutorial. That's the real vehicle for a revolution in education.

PairTheBoard
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