I Hate, Hate, Hate These Math Topics!
Brian Cafarella · 2025
In Chapters 5 and 6, I explore some of the mathematical topics that students despise. Such topics include fractions, division, factoring expressions, areas of Euclidean geometry, slope and equation of a line, and probability. As I do throughout the book, I want students to understand that they are not alone in their fear and dislike of math. Consequently, I share more student stories regarding these topics, and why these topics can be so difficult. To prepare students for colleges, I discuss where (in which classes), students will see the aforementioned topics. Moreover, I explain the prerequisites for such topics, and how students could be proactive in their preparation. Many students develop fears of specific mathematical topics, and being aware of where such topics surface and how to combat them can set students up for success. I provide students with several practice problems on these topics.