Students respond to algebra column
“Today (Aug. 21) I read Mr. Chuck Doud’s Opinion piece (Algebra formula just doesn’t compute) I agree with you, Mr. Doud. I think the state really shouldn’t spend $3 billion (on testing 8th graders in algebra). It’s just outrageous. I mean I love math and all, but I just don’t think kids who don’t want to study or learn it should be forced to do that.”
Jesus Montemayor,
senior, Mountain Vista High School
“I am a junior at MVHS and I think that 8th graders should be able to take the algebra test because they should be able to learn algebra. It is very important. I realize that algebra is very helpful, because you are able to learn and understand much more and better in math. Algebra will give you more confidence in yourself. Studying and learning algebra opens doors of opportunity.”
Luzvey Cortes
“I am a 10th grader and I think 8th graders should be tested in Algebra. I really didn’t and (still) don’t like math right now, but I’m getting used to it. Some students do like algebra. Some don’t like it. But it (algebra) is good and worthwhile. So, I say test the 8th graders. I wasn’t tested, but I think the state should test 8th graders in Algebra.”
Veronica Calvario
“I think it would be a good idea to test 8th graders in algebra. When they get into high school they will know it, and they will be smarter. I think everyone should take algebra. When my sister was in 6th grade, she did not know math very well. But now that she is in 8th grade and she has algebra, she is smarter.”
Adriana Hernandez,
11th grader at MVRS
“My teacher, Mr. O’Donovan, read your opinion article to the class. (Algebra formula just doesn’t compute). I think every 8th grader should take the algebra test. I am a senior now and I did study algebra in 8th grade.”
Daisy Ocampo,
senior, MVHS
“Mr. O’Donovan read your article to the class today. Based on my own personal experience, my opinion is that everyone learns at their own pace. Most kids struggle with algebra. Forcing them isn’t going to make them learn. As a sophomore, I didn’t “get” algebra. It’s hard. When I was in 8th grade, I had pre-algebra. I struggled with it. So, why not let everyone learn at their own pace?”
Joanna Guzman,
10th Grader, MVHS
“I don’t think 8th Graders should be forced to take a test in Algebra unless they want to take it. They should take the test If their parents want them to, also. I also think If teachers want kids to take the test, they should also take the test because they learn by doing that.”
Edgar Rosales,
11th grader
“I am a senior at MVHS and I think 8th graders should take the algebra test because they are the future and who cares if the algebra test costs a lot of money to administer. So, my opinion is, ‘I say, yes! Do it!’”
Sandy Pimental,
12th grader, MVHS
“I am a junior and I think you are wrong about this because I really don’t know math and I need more practice so I can pass the CARSEE Math Test and graduate. So, I think 8th graders should take the algebra test. Everyone should take algebra so they can be more confident in themselves and their ability. They will also have a better future. When I was in 8th Grade, I took pre-algebra.”
Martha Gonzalez,
11th grader
“My opinion of this article titled: ‘Algebra formula just doesn’t compute’ is that you are right, because why spend money on math when you could spend that money on something else students need more. Algebra just might be too hard for people in 8th grade. The example that Chuck Doud used was ‘It’s like tap dancing, when you fall and trip on your own toes, you quit and give up.’ Some have the ability to do it, but others do not. Arnold Schwarzenegger is wrong — very wrong. What gives him the right? I know for a fact that we students and our parents don’t agree with his proposition to spend $3 billion to give every 8th grader in California an algebra test. We don’t agree with that opinion.”
Estella Zuniga,
Junior at MVHS
“I don’t think that all 8th graders should be taught Algebra. I am a senior and I still have a hard time with Algebra. Arnold should have stuck to acting and body building and leave math to the State Superintendent of Schools. (Mr. Jack O’Connell)”
Andrew Medina,
Senior at MVHS
“I read your article, ‘Algebra formula just doesn’t compute,’ and I think 8th graders should not have to take the algebra test.”
Marcos Villanueva,
11th grade, MVHS
“I think 8th Graders should take Algebra. This will help student to be better at math and help them get a better job because all people need math to work.”
Francisco Venegas,
Junior, MVHS
