Monkey Algebra = Steps so clearly written out that the average intelligent monkey can follow and understand them.

Monkey Derivations (You get the idea!)

i.e. DON'T SKIP ANY STEPS! If you do, it might confuse the monkey.

I know this sounds really silly. Ok, it is... But, you KNOW how students like to skip steps to mask that they don't have a clue as to what is going on!

For example:  In induction proofs, when they have to show that P(k) implies P(k+1)... The classic fudging of the proof... Write the first step down, then a miracle occurs and we have our result! Viola! (And Karen takes a bunch of points off!)

I tried, for years - well, a couple, anyway, to figure out some way to drill it into their heads that, in some cases, skipping steps is a big no-no.  The "monkey" thing sure works! 

I just tell them that they have to use monkey math. I just have to explain what it means once... and they remember. You just don't forget something THIS silly!

If they've fudged a proof or a derivation, all I have to do is scratch my head, look puzzled and make some "Oo? Oo?" monkey sounds and they get the message. Makes them laugh too! Sure it makes me look really goofy, but, heck, that's my job!  8-) I'm willing to sacrifice myself for learning.

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