If your child struggles with algebra, you’ve probably heard them say something like, “I’m never going to use this anyway.” However, all different kinds of math are used in our everyday lives, whether we realize it or not, especially algebra. The next time your child questions the importance of what they’re learning, use these examples to highlight how algebra is used in everyday life. Providing practical applications and seeking additional algebra help are effective ways to improve their skills. 

How People Use Algebra Every Day

1. Cooking

Algebra is about using known information to discover unknown information. For example, if you’re cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving, you need to calculate how long it will take to thaw—this is your unknown. The package indicates 24 hours of thawing time for every 5 pounds—this is your known information. So how long does a 16-pound turkey take to thaw? An algebraic equation like X=16/5 x 24 will tell you.

2. Home Improvements 

Algebra is integral in construction. For example, if you’re purchasing new flooring, you’ll need algebra to calculate the size of the room and the total cost of the supplies. Or perhaps you want to add square footage to your home. You have a 12 by 13 plot of land to work with, so by using an equation like X=12 x 13, you can determine that you have 156 square feet to work with. Algebra is also used by carpenters for more complex equations, such as determining the ideal slope for a driveway or the correct angle for a roof.

3. Shopping

When shopping, you’ll see sales offering a discount as a percent. Algebra helps you determine how much you’ll pay. For example, if a $30 item is on sale for 40% off, you will pay 60 percent of the price. As an equation, that looks like X/30 = 60/100. Simply cross multiply to reach the final price of $18. 

Algebra also helps you figure out how much of any given item you can buy. If you have $10, and need to buy as many bottles of $1.25 soda as possible, use an equation like 1.25 x X=10. By solving for X, you can easily determine that you can afford eight bottles of soda. With extracurricular algebra help, equations like these become easy to solve in your head.

If your child needs algebra help, or tutoring in any other math subject, the instructors at Mathnasium in Smyrna, GA, are here to help. These professionals have been helping students in grades 2 through 12 for 10 years, giving them the skills and confidence they need to excel in school. Their Mathnasium Method™ provides individualized programs to help every student succeed. Call (770) 436-4949 or learn more about them online.