Re: Setting up problems

["RAUBER, JOEL" <JOEL_RAUBER@SDSTATE.EDU>]

Rick T wrote in part:
> I can provide the equation--say that for centripetal
> acceleration or for the
> Gravitational force and ask how the acceleration or the force
> changes if we
> double the distance (or radius).  To MANY, MANY students, this is like
> asking them to translate Aristotle from the original Greek.
>
> Can we, should we, be teaching basic Algebra in our physics
> course?  Or
> maybe it's not the Algebra, just a lack of critical thinking
> skills.   ??

I don't see how you can avoid teaching basic algebra to such students in
your physics class.  You inevitably are doing it.

I suppose your rhetorical question is more along the lines of should we
formally devote lectures to basic algebra topics.

Joel