sirenspull | thirty third dance

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thirty third dance | text;

how can x equal so many different things isn't it only one letter shouldn't it only be able to be one number too

[Math is hard, her life is difficult, and this was totally worth talking to the network about. Anything to distract her from homework...]

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Okay. Let's not think of x as any number at all. Maybe it's just a blank void. So the real question is: what number plus 4 would make 13?

The easiest method to finding that out would be reverse that question. If 13 is the ending number, and the opposite of addition is subtraction, then that blank void would be the answer of 13 - 4.

Would that make sense?

so you just reverse it in all the questions?

You can do that, yes.

It's easier to say that x will be your answer, so for that question you want to only have x on that side of the = sign. So the easiest way to do that would be to take away the 4.

x + 4 = 13

To keep it equal on both sides, you'd have to minus 4 on both sides.

x + 4 (- 4) = 13 (- 4)

That way on one side, it's x + 0 = 13 - 4 and you can take the '+ 0' away since it doesn't do anything for the equation.

so it's 9?

For this question, yes. You're doing very well.

thanks, hope! you helped a lot

No problem. It's always hard the first few times, but math gets easier with practice.

If there's anything else you don't understand yet, just give me a call. I'll do my best to help.

sometimes i feel like it's harder for me than it should be that's really nice of you! i'll remember it

Some people have affinities with certain subjects but struggle with others. The fact that you solved that problem means you can do it, even if it feels hard. And it might get easier with time.

Don't give up; I'm sure there are lots of things you're really good at that other people find hard as well.

but don't you start learning harder things over time? you think?

They do, and that's why people need to learn one step at a time. Understanding algebra is the platform for more complicated maths, but you should go at your own pace. Take the next step when you feel you're comfortable understanding this one. Everything gets more complicated, but it doesn't have to be harder to understand.

I know.

i'm allowed to go at my own pace if it's for a class? thanks.

You should be. If you don't understand something completely yet, make sure to inform your teacher. They should take the time to make sure you're comfortable with a subject before moving on to anything more complicated. And even if they do move on, teachers shouldn't mind explaining the basics again as long as you tell them you don't quite understand it but are willing to learn.

i don't want to slow everyone else down

You wouldn't be. Teachers have a schedule they have to keep to, with a bit of leeway. Everyone has trouble with different subjects at different times, after all.

Not understanding the basics when it gets harder would only be harmful to your grades. There are probably many others in your class who don't understand but won't speak out about it. You might actually be doing them a favor if you're willing to be brave enough to admit you don't understand something.

it might help other people?

Yes. So never be afraid to ask questions or ask for further explanations.

i didn't think about it like that! i'll try my very best

I know you will. I think your classmates are lucky to have you.

that might be stretching it a little!

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