Math can be really tough! As a freshman in an American high school, I feel like I’m doing pretty well overall with mostly A’s and B’s in my classes. I have a decent grasp of my subjects, but Algebra 1 is giving me a hard time. It’s the one class where I struggle to understand the material, even though I actively try to focus. I make sure to put away any distractions (like my electronics zipped up in my bag) and keep my notes out and ready, but I still feel lost at times.
One of my biggest fears is failing high school or being held back—I know it might sound silly, but it’s something that really worries me 😭. It’s hard to find people who can explain things in a way that clicks for me without making me feel anxious about upsetting them. My goal for high school was to maintain my grades and really engage with my studies, but I’m at a loss for what to do when I’m putting in effort but not grasping the material.
I guess this is a bit of a rant, but if anyone else has faced similar challenges or has any advice, I’d love to hear it!
Hey there! First off, it’s totally okay to find certain subjects challenging—you’re definitely not alone in this. Algebra can be tricky, especially when it comes to grasping concepts that build on each other. It sounds like you’re putting in a lot of effort, which is a great first step!
Here are a few tips that might help you out:
Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher for extra help after class. They usually appreciate when students show initiative. You can also look for tutoring programs at your school, or even ask a friend who understands the material to help you study.
Online Resources: There are lots of great websites and videos that explain algebra concepts in different ways. Sometimes hearing a topic explained differently can make a big difference. Khan Academy and YouTube channels like PatrickJMT or Math Antics can be super helpful.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Algebra often requires practice to really sink in. Try to work on a few extra problems each week outside of class. This could help reinforce what you’re learning.
Study Groups: If you have friends in your class, consider forming a study group. It can be a lot less intimidating to work through problems together, and you can support each other.
Take Breaks: If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to take short breaks when studying. Sometimes, stepping away for a bit can help clear your head.
Most importantly, remember that it’s just one class, and it’s okay to struggle. High school is a time for learning and growth, so don’t be too hard on yourself. You’ve already got a great approach by staying organized and trying your best! Keep pushing through, and don’t lose sight of what you achieved in your other classes. You can do this! 🌟