Do you need Algebra to take Biology?

Question

I just asked a question about Algebra before Geometry. Now, I want to know if it is really necessary to take algebra before Biology. Again... my 10th grader is being told that Algebra is a prerequisite for Biology.

Answer 1

Is it really necessary? At one time probably not. But DNA has changed all that.

Across the board it is the norm to have algebra in the 9th grade along with general science, followed by biology, chemistry and physics. The math sequence is then algebra, geometry, trig and calculus. In many schools algebra is being taught in the 8th grade.

When you consider all schools and colleges it is not unusual to have a heavy math requirement followed by chemistry, then biology.

A grasp of algebra and English is necessary to graduate from any High School and to enter any college. Math at least through algebra and English are core requirements. Knowing this I see no real reason to fuss over the sequence.

Answer 2

Typically, biology is only offered at grade 11 or higher, and many schools will require student to have completed grade 10 prior to taking grade 11 courses.

Algebra is very useful in both biology and chemistry because there are simple calculations that need to be done using one or two variables. Strong math skills also provide a foundation for all science courses because of the logic and reasoning skills that go along with it.

Answer 3

Believe it or not, yes. Biology, especially in college, requires other disciplines such as chemistry, physics, and math. Algebra is vital in finding unknown values using known values and variables. Calculating and reading graphs, determining population curves, and even determining genetic ratios require a basic understanding of algebra.

Answer 4

No, not at all it won't help u in the least to know algebra for biology. bio= life, algebra=numbers. Technically by school rules u do but it's not actually needed.