FROM THE EDITOR

It shattered students’ confidence, left them in tears and shocked teachers.

This year’s NCEA level 1 MCAT was tough and people are angry. Angry about algebra. Everyone’s had their say on the issue and experts have offered tips on dealing with exam stress.

The fuss made me curious, so I googled ’how is algebra used in real life’? It’s used in engineering, finance and scientific fields of course.

Further reading revealed: ‘Algebra is also used when calculating the amount of paint needed to paint the walls of a room. It is also used when determining the amount of carpeting needed to carpet a floor.’

It’s obviously more useful that I thought - tradies probably use algebra too. I’ve always been crap at maths. Am more of a words person.

But that’s ok, everyone’s good at something. I take my hat off to anyone who can even remotely understand algebra.

- Jenny