Page 316 - Keys to College Success

Math Is a Life Tool

You use aspects of quantitative thinking—thinking with numbers—every day, includ-
ing arithmetic calculations for your checking account, geometrical thinking
for how to pack items into the trunk of your car, figuring ratios for
allowable deductions on a tax return, and so on. When you are com-
fortable with basic quantitative skills such as the following, you can
face any numerical life challenge that comes your way.

Arithmetic. Many everyday tasks, especially those involving money,
require arithmetic (numerical computations such as addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division, plus the use of fractions and percentages). You are
using arithmetic when you calculate how much tuition you can cover in a semester
or figure out what to tip in a restaurant. You also use arithmetic when you examine
ingredient percentages on food labels in the effort to improve your health.

Algebra. A knowledge of algebra—a generalization of arithmetic in which letters rep-
resenting unknown quantities are combined, often with other numbers, into equations
according to mathematical rules—is needed almost as frequently as arithmetic. Algebra
involves determining an unknown value using known values.You use algebra when you
figure the interest on a loan or compute what an item costs when the store offers 20%
off the price.

Geometry. The most common uses of geometry—the mathematics of the properties,
measurement, and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids—occur in
determining areas and volumes. Figuring out how much flooring, carpet, or wallpa-
per you need for a room requires the ability to calculate the size of the area being
covered. You also use geometric principles without even thinking about it when, for
example, you determine how closely you can pass a car or pack a suitcase so that it
can close.

Probability and statistics. A knowledge of basic probability (the study of the chance
that a given event will occur) and statistics (collection, analysis, and interpretation of Mathematical and Financial Literacy
numerical data) is needed for understanding the relevance and importance of the over-
whelming amount of statistical information you encounter. For example, a woman’s
knowledge of probability can help her determine her risk of getting breast cancer; a
student’s understanding of statistics can help him analyze his chances of getting
accepted at a particular graduate school.
Sciences. Biology, anatomy, and other sciences directly related to the human body can
help you to better manage your health through a greater understanding of how your
body works. Chemistry can help you figure out how to substitute ingredients in a rec-
ipe or become aware of possible interactions between medications you are taking.

Math Is a Problem-Solving Training Ground
Math and science are relevant to any academic subject because they promote problem
solving and thinking skill. When your brain moves from mathematical questions to
solutions, you build the kind of critical thinking necessary to think through any type of
problem, from reconciling different perspectives in a philosophy course to examining
the causes of a historical event.
Statistics is one particularly useful area when it comes to building universally appli-
cable problem-solving and decision-making abilities. “Statistical reasoning supports deci-
sion making under conditions of uncertainty, an inescapable condition of modern life. This
is math that will help . . . students understand the world around them, and it’s math they
can use right now,” says the president and senior partner of the Carnegie Foundation. 1

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