Preface  (Page 3/4)

All chapters are broken down into multiple sections, the titles of which can be viewed in the Table of Contents .

Key features and boxes

Examples Each learning objective is supported by one or more worked examples that demonstrate the problem-solving approaches that students must master. Typically, we include multiple Examples for each learning objective to model different approaches to the same type of problem, or to introduce similar problems of increasing complexity.

All Examples follow a simple two- or three-part format. First, we pose a problem or question. Next, we demonstrate the solution, spelling out the steps along the way. Finally (for select Examples), we show students how to check the solution. Most Examples are written in a two-column format, with explanation on the left and math on the right to mimic the way that instructors “talk through” examples as they write on the board in class.

Be Prepared! Each section, beginning with Section 2.1, starts with a few “Be Prepared!” exercises so that students can determine if they have mastered the prerequisite skills for the section. Reference is made to specific Examples from previous sections so students who need further review can easily find explanations. Answers to these exercises can be found in the supplemental resources that accompany this title.

Try it

How to

Media

Disclaimer: While we have selected tutorials that closely align to our learning objectives, we did not produce these tutorials, nor were they specifically produced or tailored to accompany Elementary Algebra .

Self Check The Self Check includes the learning objectives for the section so that students can self-assess their mastery and make concrete plans to improve.

Art program

Elementary Algebra contains many figures and illustrations. Art throughout the text adheres to a clear, understated style, drawing the eye to the most important information in each figure while minimizing visual distractions.

Section exercises and chapter review

Section Exercises Each section of every chapter concludes with a well-rounded set of exercises that can be assigned as homework or used selectively for guided practice. Exercise sets are named Practice Makes Perfect to encourage completion of homework assignments.

• Exercises correlate to the learning objectives. This facilitates assignment of personalized study plans based on individual student needs.
• Exercises are carefully sequenced to promote building of skills.
• Values for constants and coefficients were chosen to practice and reinforce arithmetic facts.
• Even and odd-numbered exercises are paired.
• Exercises parallel and extend the text examples and use the same instructions as the examples to help students easily recognize the connection.
• Applications are drawn from many everyday experiences, as well as those traditionally found in college math texts.
• Everyday Math highlights practical situations using the concepts from that particular section
• Writing Exercises are included in every exercise set to encourage conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and literacy.