專題推薦：2008年“兩會”英語學習專題

這個問題可能曾經被無數偏科的文科生問過，“我們為什么非要學代數啊？”其實代數不僅僅是帶領我們走向更高級科學領域的必備課程，它還是可以培養我們邏輯推理能力的一門課程呢！有研究顯示，代數學得好的人升入大學的幾率更大。

First of all, algebra is the gateway to all the higher maths: geometry, algebra II, trigonometry (三角學), analytic geometry (解析幾何), calculus (微積分) and beyond. Since all sciences (including biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, engineering, computer science, architecture, design, many social sciences, economics, finance, even flying an airplane!) depend on algebra and higher math, learning algebra is essential for anyone considering working in these fields. Learning the abstract reasoning skills that algebra teaches helps students become better abstract reasoners in general. Good abstract reasoning skills improve a student's ability to write a coherent essay, for example, since essays require the writer to shift back and forth between abstract concepts and specific supporting facts. Many life skills, including choosing a career, making major purchases, running a business, and managing a family also require reasoning skills that are improved by math study.

In addition, success in algebra correlates highly with success in higher education. Algebra and further math are critical to a student's chance of attending university. This was well documented in a 1990 study by the College Board. In this study, researchers found that students who take a year of algebra and follow that with a year of geometry nearly double their chances of going to college -- by doing that alone!

（來源: funtrivia.com 英語點津 Helen 編輯）