Is Algebra 2 Harder than Geometry

How hard is Geometry?

Geometry is the study of shapes, as well as their sizes, angles, and dimensions. Typically, in high school geometry courses, students are introduced to formal proofs, in which they must demonstrate logical reasoning through application of math laws. Through a series of logical deductions, students will have to write out statements and reasons in order to prove or disprove a given statement, usually relating to geometric shapes. 

Many students list proofs as some of the more difficult aspects of geometry in high school, but there are other complicated subjects that geometry classes cover. The SAT also places importance on a strong grasp of geometry in both of the Math sections. Topics like congruency and similar triangles, angle rules, and shapes’ areas appear very often within the SAT, so it’s important to have a good understanding of basic geometry rules and formulas before taking the exam. If a student is unfamiliar with the core concepts of Geometry they might need SAT tutoring.

Like any subject in math, geometry’s level of difficulty depends on each student. Students who feel as though they prefer to work “visually” with shapes instead of variables in algebraic statements will likely find geometry to be easier than other, more abstract concepts. For example, many students who excel in geometry think of the problems as puzzles and can easily grasp spatial concepts within the questions. However, geometry is, at its very core, a set of rules that students can learn through practice and repetition. 

If a student is struggling with their geometry class in high school, we recommend looking up some “cheat sheets” with a general outline of extremely common core concepts. SoFlo Tutors has a great school resource page students should explore.

We also recommend trying to understand which specific topics the student needs help with. After identifying these points, students should consider reading its accompanying theorem, equation, or rule in the textbook. Since geometry is a highly visual math subject, it may be extra helpful to look up free math videos on YouTube. Watching someone else work through a problem or explain a concept on a white board can help students really see how to solve for the solution. 

Since geometry is a required class in most high school curriculums, it is unlikely a student would be able to avoid taking the class. Furthermore, it includes a set of concepts that are commonly found in the SAT, which many colleges and universities ask students to include in their applications. Some of the most common geometry concepts found on the SAT include (but are not limited to): finding the areas of equilateral or right triangles, using geometry in conjunction with algebraic concepts in order to find the dimensions of certain shapes, and applying knowledge of shapes’ angle measures to solve for an unknown angle.

Is algebra 2 harder than geometry?

Geometry’s level of difficulty depends on each student’s strengths in math. For example, some students thrive solving logical, step-by-step algebraic problems. Other students understand different concepts on a more visual level, meaning they perform better with Geometry concepts. 

Students will likely take algebra 1 before taking geometry, and will then follow up these two topics with algebra 2. Algebra 1 focuses on solving and graphing equations and inequalities while algebra 2 covers new functions like exponential and logarithmic equations. Furthermore, algebra 2 includes topics about trigonometry, which explores the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles. The six functions (sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant) and how to apply them are taught in the trigonometry sections, and they are an important part of algebra 2. These trigonometric functions are often some of the more challenging math concepts for many students, especially with complicated aspects like the unit circle.

Algebra 2 is a difficult class for many students, and personally I find algebra 2’s concepts more complicated than those in geometry. However, this again depends on each student and their personal preferences and strengths. After Aagebra 2 students who love math will start exploring Calculus which can be especially difficult.

Can you take algebra 2 before geometry?

Geometry is typically taken before algebra 2 and after algebra 1. Whether or not a student can take algebra 2 before Geometry depends on each student’s school policies. However, I would recommend taking the traditional order of math classes. 

Some schools allow their students to place out of certain math concepts. Still, even if this is the case, students should fully consider which courses they wish to take while in high school. For example, if they are able to test out of certain subjects, they will likely just move onto the next level subject instead. In doing so, they will have to go at least one level beyond most of their peers and end high school in one of the highest level math classes. If students do not feel like they would enjoy this option or perform well, they should be cautious about making the decision to skip certain classes.

Furthermore, geometry is designed for students to take before algebra 2. Since geometry covers the basic rules for trigonometric ratios and introduces students to relationships between shape dimensions, it would benefit the student to study geometry before taking algebra 2, which does a deeper dive into trigonometric topics. Having a geometry foundation can prove helpful by giving an introduction into some of the more complicated topics of algebra 2. It can also help students’ critical thinking abilities and improve their spatial reasoning skills.

Do you need algebra for geometry?

Again, the answer to this question can depend on each school’s policy and each student’s personal ability. However, in regard to common curriculum for many schools, students will need to know algebra in order to succeed in their geometry classes. Many geometric questions will include at least one step of algebra, as they often fuse geometry and algebra concepts together. For example, students could encounter a question about similar triangles in geometry class with the sides labeled with expressions like x-2. Therefore, in order to solve this problem, students would have to apply their previous knowledge of algebraic expressions. 

Specifically for the SAT, algebra and geometry play very close roles within the exam. It’s important to build up a foundation of algebra knowledge, as many geometry questions within the exam do involve algebra, similar to the hypothetical question from the previous paragraph. For this reason, algebra is necessary in most curriculums for geometry. Students should build a good base understanding of algebra in order to succeed in higher level math classes, which include geometry. 

Students should do some research about their school’s policy and curriculum if they are curious about what order to take certain math classes. If possible, speaking to the math teachers at the school can give helpful and detailed information to guide any decisions.