Varsity Tutors is here to help your student get more out of their valuable study and test preparation time by setting you up with a qualified algebra tutor. Algebra tutors offer a unique chance to learn alongside an expert in the subject who can create a focused environment that is conducive to algebra tutoring. It's possible that you and your student have spent time searching for "algebra tutoring near me." If so, then it's likely that you understand the value that a top-notch algebra tutor can bring to your student's study time. If you are tired of searching for an "algebra tutor near me," you will be happy to know that Varsity Tutors is ready to set you up with a private tutor. Please continue reading to see how Algebra tutoring can help your child's learning.
What is Algebra?
Algebra is a branch of mathematics in which arithmetical operations and formal manipulations are applied to abstract symbols rather than specific numbers. Its roots stretch all the way back to the ancient Babylonians. The name "algebra" comes from the Arabic term meaning "the reunion of broken parts." This name is credited to the Persian mathematician Muhammad ibn Musa Al-Khwarizmi. Today, algebra is a vital part of the modern world, used in everything from telecommunications to building homes.
Typical algebra courses might include the following:
Common Algebra Courses
- Pre-Algebra - sets students up for solving complex linear equations with variables in algebra courses by covering topics like order of operations, variables, exponents, factoring, operations properties, integers, and equation solving
- Algebra I - covers functions, systems of equations, polynomials, expressions, and other key algebraic principles. Introduces linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations, radical expressions, and more.
- Algebra II - further work in complex linear equations, quadratic equations, logarithmic and exponential expressions, probability, trigonometry, sequences, matrix algebra, graphing, series, and other intermediate algebra topics.
- College Algebra - topics from Algebra I and II covered at a much faster pace
An algebra tutor can help your student broaden their knowledge and build up their skill set no matter what algebra course they are currently enrolled in. If your student is just beginning with algebra, then their algebra tutoring sessions can start from the core principles that are required to advance. Your student's algebra tutor can spend the time going over foundational content that they need, giving them a better idea of what to expect with not only their lower-level courses but the more advanced algebra courses as well.
Learning Algebra
Algebra tutors can introduce your student to the complex world of algebraic equations or smooth their transition into more upper-level strands of algebra. Here are some of the Common Core standards regarding algebra:
Common Core High School Algebra Standards
- Expressions
- Structure of expressions
- Solving problems by rewriting expressions in equivalent forms
- Polynomials and Rational Functions
- Arithmetic operations with polynomials
- Factors of polynomials
- Solving problems using polynomial identities
- Rewriting rational functions
- Equations
- Writing equations to represent relationships or numbers
- Equations and Inequalities
- Using reasoning skills to explain how equation solving works
- Solving inequalities and equations with one variable
- Solving systems of equations
- Depict equations and inequalities using graphs and solve them
If your student is studying algebra-or pre-algebra-at school, their qualified algebra tutor can help them learn a deeper knowledge of many of the standards listed above. One of the great perks of working with an algebra tutor is that your student will have the chance to work closely with a professional who can look out for their academic interests. Algebra tutoring sessions can take place in a one-on-one environment where your student's needs are the focus. What's more, sessions are fully customizable to the particular needs of your student, allowing them to devote time to the topics and skills that they need most. One example could be the chance to spend more time on a skill such as polynomials if your student should need it. Their algebra tutor can develop an approach to teaching this content that suits their individual learning style and allows them to understand complex concepts more readily. This creates a more effective and efficient learning environment that your student can benefit from.
Algebra and Testing
Algebra appears on a number of standardized exams, and algebra tutors can help your student prepare for them. Questions are presented differently on a standardized test, and each exam comes with its own time limits, specific topics tested, and other details. But preparing for the various standardized exams that include algebra tends to have certain things in common.
For one, your student's tutor could begin by providing them with a selection of practice questions representing each type of algebra question they'll find on the exam. This can give the instructor a baseline from which to plan lessons and to compare your student's performance on future practice questions to track their growth. Once your student demonstrates they've mastered a particular concept, they can spend less time reviewing that and more time on the subjects they're still finding challenging.
There are certain test-taking strategies that can help your student in standardized exam situations, such as organization, time management, and anxiety alleviation. Different tests have different scoring methods, so your student's algebra tutor can make sure they know what to do when they don't know an answer that will make the least negative impact on their final score. Sometimes this means making the best guess, and sometimes it means leaving it blank. Knowing the right thing to do can have a big impact on your student's final or composite score.
A few standardized exams that will gauge your student's Algebra skills include:
- PSAT 8/9 – This test helps younger students see where they are compared to where they need to be in 2-4 years when they take the SAT. The Heart of Algebra section requires students to create, solve, or interpret linear expressions and inequalities, solve systems of two linear equations in two variables, and interpret variables and constants for linear functions in the presented context.
- SAT Subject Test Math 1 & 2 – The SAT Subject Tests can help a student stand out to a college or university admissions board. Some schools may require students to take certain Subject Tests. Students who plan to major in mathematics or other math-heavy courses may want to take both math Subject Tests to indicate their interest and strength in math. The algebra sections include questions about expressions, equations, and properties of many functions including linear, rational, and periodic, among others.
- ACT – The ACT is a standardized exam used by colleges and universities to determine admission and placement of new students. Up to 65 percent of the ACT math section is made up of questions on pre-algebra, elementary algebra, and intermediate algebra. Topics covered include basic operations, properties of exponents and square roots, and the quadratic formula.
If it's a classroom test that your student needs help with, a great algebra tutor can help with that as well. Working with a tutor can allow your student to go over the classroom content through a variety of unique ways. A skilled algebra tutor can align their content with your student's particular learning style. For instance, if your student is more of a visual learner, the tutor can develop content so that students are better able to understand it. Tutors can also guide you toward supplementary materials and even practice questions that can strengthen core skills and knowledge, leaving your student feeling more prepared on test day. Your student can also have time to ask their tutor questions and get thorough answers that can help enlighten challenging material.
Algebra tutoring can be beneficial to students at any skill level. Your student's beginnings with algebra can start at an early age. Many schools begin teaching algebra in or around the 8th grade, though it can be even earlier for some students. Therefore, the importance of having a qualified algebra tutor is hard to overstate. Below is a breakdown of when students typically begin learning algebra:
Percentage of Schools Offering Algebra I at Grade Levels
| 8th Grade | 9th-10th Grade | 11th-12th Grade |
| 59% | 84% | 60% |
- 24% of 8th Grade public school students take Algebra I
The Growing Importance of Algebra
While some students love it and others hate it, one thing remains clear: algebra isn't going anywhere. If anything, the importance of algebra has only increased in recent years. With the push towards more science and math-based curriculum in recent years, as well as the momentum of the technology-based sectors of the job market, it is more important now than ever that your student has a strong foundation in algebra. The real-world applications of algebra are present in jobs in fields such as architecture, medicine, computer coding, and carpentry.
The importance of algebra in building the workforce of tomorrow is evident. This might explain the popularity of search terms such as "algebra tutors near me." Anyone searching for an "algebra tutor near me," knows this full well. If you are one such person, then reaching out to Varsity Tutors could be a great option to get your child on the right track, whether they're just starting out with algebra or in an upper-level algebra class. If you want to increase your student's chances of becoming confident in their algebra skills, tutoring could be a great option.
Why Work With a Tutor?
Working with an algebra tutor can assist your student in learning fundamental content and skills as well as help them more effectively and efficiently prepare for tests. Some of the test-taking skills that qualified tutors can assist with include dealing with issues of timing, what to do when a challenging question arises, and even how to deal with nerves before and during a test. Another great perk of working with a talented tutor is the chance to develop and implement a study plan. As a tutor gets to know your student, they will be able to see any deficiencies, leading them to develop a plan of action that can correct them. Your student's time can them be put to better use as they know where to focus their efforts in the lead up to the test.
Tutors can also be highly flexible. Your student is likely busy with afterschool activities and burdened with a heavy workload. Therefore, time is something that is not so easy to come by. As such, finding a tutor who can work around your timeline can be incredibly helpful. Varsity Tutors is eager to help you find the tutor who can adjust to the times that are best for your student.
Tying it All Together
While algebra's roots stretch back deep into history, its uses and applications are more readily apparent now than ever. Students are expected to start algebra from a relatively early point in their secondary school career. The job market continues to move toward jobs that demand high levels of algebra knowledge as well. As such, dedicating the time to mastering this complex and intriguing academic field is incredibly important for any student. Working with an algebra tutor can help hone these important skills and give your student self-confidence in their academic abilities.
The environment created by a talented tutor can be very conducive to learning, giving your student the chance to focus on what's most important: academics. If you think your student would benefit from working with a skilled algebra tutor, reach out to Varsity Tutors today by phone or email. You can speak with an academic advisor regarding any questions that you might have, and even get the ball rolling on finding the tutor who can put your child in the driver's seat of their academic career.
