Need advice re: Algebra req's for Chem (older student)

[bonniesmom]

Hi,

I'm back in school at 43, going for my l.p.n. (to start off with), trying to finish something I started twenty years ago, lol.

Just recently I finished a pre algebra class & right now I'm half way through Elem. Algebra (getting a B grade). The requirements for my Elementary Chemistry class include the class I'm currently in, BUT, it states that the next level Algebra class is "highly recommended".

I admit that I'm not fond of Algebra, nor am I Math inclined. I'm an older student, so things don't "stick" right away, but eventually I get it and am determined to get through these pre-req's. (I have completed all other pre-req's except for the Math and Science classes). I should add that I do intend to get my R.N. at some point too, and the next level Algebra may be required to do that.

I was just hoping someone might have some advice as to whether I should just take the next Algebra class or start Chem next semester. Or take both at the same time?

Am I trying to rush things too much? I just would like to start my Bio, A&P, classes soon!

Many Thanks!

[stellaluna71]

I am also an "older" student who went back to school at 40. I was required to take Math 3 (algebra) prior to taking chemistry. I got an A in chem. My math teacher thought it would be a good idea to take the next math class but it really was not needed. All the math I used in chem, I learned in algebra. As for chemistry, read the chapters very carefully and do lots of problems on your own. I bought an extra chem book, "How to Survive General Chemistry" by Michael Rosen. It was a big help.

[mzrainydayz, BSN, RN]

If you pass intermediate algebra then you will do fine in college algebra.

The further you go the harder it does get, remember to study and practice problems and get tutoring. Take college algebra if required for the RN program. Good luck.

[bonniesmom]

I may have made my query a bit too confusing. The question I have is if I should take the Intermediate Algebra before I take Chemistry? It's not required, just recommended.

How much Algebra do I need to excel at Chemistry is the bottom line. Ugh.

[bonniesmom]

More than likely I will not need the Intermediate Algebra for my R.N. degree either.

[teensmom]

You should be fine without intermediate algebra. Look over a chemistry workbook and see if dimensional analysis is understandable. I was quite an older student and hadn't taken algebra since 8th grade. I was fine, but I did hire a tutor for chemistry-well worth it!

[bonniesmom]

Thank You very much for all of your replies and advice : )

[KaseyP]

I am 40 and am applying to an RN program...do not take the add'l algebra course....you can do this without it! My program requires CHEM as a pre-req, not algebra, so I haven't taken the college algebra either! I breezed through CHEM because it has basic algebraic components...if you are good with word problems, then you'll be great at CHEM questions! Good Luck to you...You can do it!!!