专题推荐：2008年“两会”英语学习专题

这个问题可能曾经被无数偏科的文科生问过，“我们为什么非要学代数啊？”其实代数不仅仅是带领我们走向更高级科学领域的必备课程，它还是可以培养我们逻辑推理能力的一门课程呢！有研究显示，代数学得好的人升入大学的几率更大。

First of all, algebra is the gateway to all the higher maths: geometry, algebra II, trigonometry (三角学), analytic geometry (解析几何), calculus (微积分) 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!

（来源: funtrivia.com 英语点津 Helen 编辑）