In other words, the teacher's goal is not necessarily the student's goal. The children do not believe there is a place called Saint Louis. The students do not believe that a long mathematical journey with no attractive places along the way is worth the effort. I recommend three options we can try. The first is to make algebra an elective rather than a mandatory course for all students.
Many students enjoy the intricate pattern- making activity of algebra.
These students find the patterns fascinating apart from any synthetic attempt to make the product relevant. They will enjoy the course. Our model should be the police academy where my son graduated after earning a degree from San Jose State University. I see a similar strategy in chemistry or physics. We seem to understand information in almost one exposure.