A First Course in Algebra: An Interactive Approach

This book was written to address the challenge of the NCTM and AMATYC Standards and technology integration in the classroom. The authors address the standards using a variety of methods, including Numerical, Graphical, and Algebraic Models; Guided Discovery Activities; Problem Solving; Technology; Collaborative Learning.

0. An Introduction to Learning Mathematics, Problem Solving, and Teamwork. 1. Numerical Concepts. The Language of Mathematics and Term-by-Term Evaluation. Estimation. Approximate Numbers and Error. Unit Conversion. Summary. 2. An Introduction to Algebra-Numerically, Graphically, and Algebraically. Using Block Patterns to Introduce Variables and Graphs. The Rectangular Coordinate System. Graphing Equations. Modeling with Tables, Graphs, and Equations. Evaluating Expressions with Units. Formula Evaluation. Summary. 3. Working With Algebraic Expressions and Equations. Simplification of Algebraic Expressions. The Distributive Property. Solving Linear Equations. Solving Linear Literal Equations. Solving Linear Literals Using Common Factoring. Summary. Chapter 1-3 Review. 4. Linear Equations in Two Variables. Linear Relationships: Numerically and Graphically. The Graphs of Linear Equations. Summary. 5. Positive Integer Exponents. Language and Evaluation. Properties and Simplification. Summary. 6. Working with Algebra. Multiplication of Multiterm Expressions. Division. Simple Quadratics. Rational Equations. Summary. Chapter 4-6 Review. 7. More Linear Equations. Solving Linear Equations Graphically. Writing Equations of Lines. Systems of Linear Equations. Solving Linear Inequalities in One Variable. Summary. 8. Zero and Negative Integer Exponents. Language and Evaluation. Properties and Simplification. Summary. 9. Geometry. Angles and Triangles. Polygons and Circles. Similar Triangles. Scale Drawings. Geometric Solids and Surface Area. Volumes of Prisms and Cylinders. Summary. 10. Statistics and Probability. Graphical Displays of Data. Descriptive Statistics. Probability. Summary. Chapter 7-10 Review. Appendix A: The Real Number System Appendix B: Arithmetic with Signed Numbers Appendix C: Reading and Measuring with Rulers Appendix D: Perimeter and Area Concepts. Geometry Reference. Conversion Tables. Selected AnswersIndex. Index of Strategies.