Every Reason For Learning Algebra That You Will Ever Find:
The following is a complete list of every reason that I could find for why we have to learn algebra. Each of these was gathered sincerely when I myself was a student; I was convinced that there was a good and solid reason why algebra was a major part of our course and I had somehow missed out on it. I wanted to love what I studied and connect it with my daily life. If you, too, are a student who has come here with the same purpose, I request you to read these first very carefully and ask yourself if they convince you completely. If they do, you need not go on; if they don't, well, that's what this place is for. ;-)
1. It's faster than basic maths
Arithmetic builds on our knowledge of numbers and counting and simplifies it. Algebra builds on our knowledge of arithmetic and simplifies it. Just like multiplying nine times nine is obviously easier than counting nine groups of nine, algebra makes arithmetic easier.
2. You need algebra to learn statistics and calculus
Mathematics builds on itself, after all. A weak algebra base will leave you clueless in calculus, leaving you statistically more likely to fail. Only you won't even be able to calculate your own failure rate...ouch!
3. Algebra teaches you to think logically; it's a brain exercise which helps you in everything later on
It develops critical thinking skills; teaches us logic, problem solving, reasoning, patterns, etc. It's like P.E. for the brain. ;-)
4. Algebra is used in a variety of professions
Note that the examples are always a list of 100% science and tech professions
5. It's required for jobs and universities everywhere so it makes your prospects better
After all, we all want a better future...
6. Allows you to take a situation and make it more general, using fool-proof formulae that help you everywhere
For example, the triangle formula or the Time-Distance-Speed formula; a single formula can help you in a number of situations.
7. Algebra is beautiful and fun! It's a stimulating challenge.
Even if you don't understand it, there's a beauty in algebra that is undeniable; and nothing is more satisfying than solving a difficult equation successfully; it's like decoding a puzzle.
8. Essential parts of our modern life like phones, computers, etc were all made using algebra. Therefore, we should have at least a basic understanding of algebra as a sort of cultural understanding.
The same reason why we study history, literature, basic science, etc.
9. It helps you at arithmetic. You wouldn't be so good at solving various numerical problems without an algebra background
Apparently, we're already using it subconsciously every day!?
10. Whatever you think you want to become, remember that career choices change with time. If and when you do decide to change your career to a science/tech one, your algebra base will help you.
After all, every teenager probably wants to be a popstar or athlete or something; only after they cross their twenties will they realise what real careers are out there.
11. There are many new jobs in the tech sector that require an algebra base. Students must be encouraged in this career direction because our society requires that.
This extends beyond the individual; we must think of what our collective society needs the most.
12. Complicated financial applications like applying two-variable equations while picking a health care plan, figuring out mortgage rates, etc.
Why hire an accountant when you can crunch those numbers yourself? :-)
13. You do need it in your daily life, and here are a few real-life examples:
Budgeting
Cooking (ratio and proportion)
Travelling (T.D.S. formula)
Sports (batting average is calculated by dividing total hits by total at-bats (H / AB), an equation. For coaches too, the game strategy involves algebraic thinking, as choosing the batting order can be seen as solving a complex problem with variables and constraints.
And that was everything that I could find after combing various sources for answers. If I missed a good reason, please feel free to address it and I'll add it and think it over. If I find it to be valid, I will scrap this whole campaign and turn this place into a pro-algebra spot! :-)
The following is a complete list of every reason that I could find for why we have to learn algebra. Each of these was gathered sincerely when I myself was a student; I was convinced that there was a good and solid reason why algebra was a major part of our course and I had somehow missed out on it. I wanted to love what I studied and connect it with my daily life. If you, too, are a student who has come here with the same purpose, I request you to read these first very carefully and ask yourself if they convince you completely. If they do, you need not go on; if they don't, well, that's what this place is for. ;-)