[PapaBear3625]

But exactly how to raise the education levels of the U.S. workforce is a matter of debate. And whether learning Algebra II causes students to fare better in life, or whether it is merely correlated with them doing better — because smart, motivated kids take Algebra II — isn’t clear.

Algebra II is a filter process. Somebody who cannot deal with Algebra II is unlikely to be able to do well in college or in any job that requires abstract thinking.

I disagree with making it a requirement, because so many low-IQ kids will flunk it that it will create overwhelming pressure to dumb it down to the point where IQ-80 kids can pass.

As others have noted, the solution is to have a viable Junior High School diploma which certifies that the holder can read and write tolerably, and do math through fractions and percents. Have school end for them at 16, and have them shift to job training.

[oh8eleven]

I disagree with making it a requirement, because so many low-IQ kids will flunk it
It's not always an IQ thing. Some very intelligent people do not have the capacity for math other than simple arithmetic.

[MrB]

I don’t disagree in principle with your plan,
but the implementation would have to be very carefully watched at the local level (not higher),

because you don’t want the left/elitists “tracking” people into certain careers. They’re already trying to do that in order to make sure that only those with the “right” worldview get into positions of prestige and power.

If an assessment test showed someone to have a “too Christian” worldview, you can bet that that person will not be recommended for any track that might lead them into law or politics.

[truthkeeper]

As others have noted, the solution is to have a viable Junior High School diploma which certifies that the holder can read and write tolerably, and do math through fractions and percents. Have school end for them at 16, and have them shift to job training.

Oh please. So I was lousy at Algebra...in the end I passed. I also was a National Merit Letter of Commendation awardee, made the Dean's list in college, graduated with a degree in English, and later earned a paralegal certificate. I am very successful in my career, which, trust me, ain't easy.

By your thinking I suppose I wasn't college material. To that I say "hogwash."

[Jim Noble]

And whether learning Algebra II causes students to fare better in life, or whether it is merely correlated with them doing better — because smart, motivated kids take Algebra II — isn’t clear

Of course it's clear.

Crystal.