Then, she plans to ignore algebra for the rest of her life. Such algebraic angst runs deeply through society. There is this general phobia about it. Yet parents look at it as an enormous measure of success. Texas math expert Treisman agreed.
Parents remember it as being really difficult.
And it's the point where they are no longer able to help their kids with math homework. Yet for many adults, algebra is a cultural reference point. They see it as an important ritual. When explaining why all students should study algebra, math types let the metaphors roll. It is the language of mathematics.