How to Help your Kids with Algebra

It would be nice if kids could breeze right through algebra, but from time to time they may need help. However, in many cases it has been over twenty years since the parents have completed algebra and they have long forgotten the difference between a hyperbola and a parabola. So what can parents do? Fortunately help is available.

Here are a few resources for parents and students:

ONLINE SOURCES

Hotmath.com - This website is the best source for homework help available online. When you visit this site you simply choose your subject, the textbook and problem number and get instant help for that specific problem. Not only does it offer full sample solutions but also includes the rules used to solve the problem. This service is $49 per year or comes free when you purchase the software Microsoft Student with Encarta Premium 2007.
 

The Math Forum @ Drexel - This free service hosts Dr. Math. Through this site you can search for nearly any math topic through college level mathematics as well as physics and chemistry. They also post articles, tips and tricks, science fair ideas and more. They even offer some math help in Spanish, German and French.
 

Wolfram Math World - Through this site you can easily search algebra topics and find full explanations with sample problems. This website covers many advanced math topics that you will not likely run across in first or second year algebra such as number theory, discrete mathematics, wavelets and so on. But if you are looking for help with basic algebra you can find it here or if you need help with advanced topics you can also find it on this site.
 

SOS Math - On this webpage you can search and find math topics and view explanations and solutions of sample problems. This site covers algebra, trigonometry and calculus; they also offer practice exams and host an active math forum.

SOFTWARE

Microsoft Student with Encarta Premium 2007 - With this program you get math instruction, an onscreen graphing calculator and one year access to MSN Encarta and Hotmath.com. With these four resources students and parents can find all of the help they need for algebra and every other school topic.

Math Success - There are several collections in this series that covers all math topics similar to a textbook. It also includes some quizzes and games as well as a few quick reference items.

Kaplan SAT, ACT & PSAT 2006 Platinum Edition - This set of discs offers a comprehensive math review section and helps students prepare for college placement tests. It also helps students get ready for essay tests and covers other subjects like history, biology, chemistry, vocabulary and government.

OTHER SOURCES

Private Tutor - Sometimes it is helpful to employ a private tutor. Tutors can be costly but some students benefit from one-on-one help. You can find a tutor at a learning center, a local university or sometimes even through your child's school.

Continuing Education Class - Through your local junior college, university or through community education you can sign up for the same class as your child and refresh your algebra skills.

Teacher - Often your child’s teacher is a good resource, they may know tutors, websites, textbooks or worksheets that can help your child succeed.

In conclusion, there is help available and if you are one of those people that has struggled with math or has math anxiety, try to not transfer that apprehension to your child. Don’t worry, you can easily help your child with the wealth of resources that are available and may even learn something yourself.

For the best homework helper available, see Math Success Deluxe 2009.