In addition to antiwar activism, I am also very interested in the teaching and learning of mathematics, especially algebra. Algebra is a "gatekeeper course": if a student can master algebra, he or she has a reasonable chance of mastering more difficult material but without algebra, all learning in mathematics and the sciences stops. I have gathered a lot of the insights I have gleaned about teaching algebra into an SAT book I wrote entitled Charlie Does the SATs: The SAT Math Review Book for People Who Hate Math. It is available as a download or paperback:Buy the Book The treatment of word problems is especially thorough as it is the ability to translate from language into algebraic notation that distinguishes students who do well on the SAT from students who do poorly.
My other interest is macrobiotics, a system of eating that originated in Japan and is based on whole grains, vegetables, beans, and small amounts of fish and fruit. It requires discipline to stick to it but if you can, the health benefits are almost miraculous. Maybe you would like to visit my blog entitled Macrobiotic Healing Magazine.
When I am not blogging, I work as a free-lance copyeditor and tutor. My hobbies include reading, swimming in the ocean, watching documentaries, and socializing with other activists.
The people who inspire me politically are Noam Chomsky, Baruch Kimmerling (May he rest in peace.), and Jennifer Cohen.
I am hoping to start a chapter of Pax Christi in Broward County, Florida in the near future.
Please write with your comments on my blog and suggestions for improvement. I would lov to hear from you.
Jessica Ramer
