> I'm not an expert on the history of math ed, but it certainly does seem
> that we push to do more and more math earlier and earlier. We try to
> start algebra in 7th or 8th grade, and calculus is a standard offering
> in the high schools. I don't think either was the case 40 years ago.
> So we are trying to teach much more math to a much higher percentage
> of students. Is it really a surprise that some stress occurs, both in
> the high schools and the community colleges?
> Am I incorrect about my assumptions above?
> Phil Mahler
> Middlesex CC
> Bedford, MA
****************************************************************************
According to what I have read, Trigonometry used to be taught in college.
It was introduced in high schools in the late 1950s as part of Advanced
Mathematics, the traditional 12th-grade course that prepared students for
calculus.
For the most part, the current K-12 mathematics curriculum is a complete
disgrace. The main objective is not to educate students but to promote the
following rackets that have been introduced during the last 30 years.
1. The so-called gifted-and-talented programs, whereby students are
separated into various groups starting in elementary school.
2. The so-called honors courses that start in middle school.
3. The rush to teach calculus in high schools as part of the advanced
placement racket.
I am amazed by the number of idiotic parents and incompetent administrators
who have fallen prey to the hucksters promoting these rackets.
Domenico Rosa
****************************************************************************
* To post to the list: email mathedcc@archives.math.utk.edu *
* To unsubscribe, send mail to: majordomo@archives.math.utk.edu *
* In the mail message, enter ONLY the words: unsubscribe mathedcc *
* Words in the Subject: line are NOT processed! *
* Archives at http://archives.math.utk.edu/hypermail/mathedcc/ *
****************************************************************************