Preface  (Page 2/4)

Chapters 3-6: The Algebraic Functions

• Chapter 3: Functions
• Chapter 4: Linear Functions
• Chapter 5: Polynomial and Rational Functions
• Chapter 6: Exponential and Logarithm Functions

Chapters 7-10: A Study of Trigonometry

• Chapter 7: The Unit Circle: Sine and Cosine Functions
• Chapter 8: Periodic Functions
• Chapter 9: Trigonometric Identities and Equations
• Chapter 10: Further Applications of Trigonometry

Chapters 11-13: Further Study in Algebra and Trigonometry

• Chapter 11: Systems of Equations and Inequalities
• Chapter 12: Analytic Geometry
• Chapter 13: Sequences, Probability, and Counting Theory

Development overview

OpenStax Algebra and Trigonometry is the product of a collaborative effort by a group of dedicated authors, editors, and instructors whose collective passion for this project has resulted in a text that is remarkably unified in purpose and voice. Special thanks is due to our Lead Author, Jay Abramson of Arizona State University, who provided the overall vision for the book and oversaw the development of each and every chapter, drawing up the initial blueprint, reading numerous drafts, and assimilating field reviews into actionable revision plans for our authors and editors.

The collective experience of our author team allowed us to pinpoint the subtopics, exceptions, and individual connections that give students the most trouble. The textbook is therefore replete with well-designed features and highlights which help students overcome these barriers. As the students read and practice, they are coached in methods of thinking through problems and internalizing mathematical processes.

Accuracy of the content

We understand that precision and accuracy are imperatives in mathematics, and undertook a dedicated accuracy program led by experienced faculty.

1. Each chapter’s manuscript underwent rounds of review and revision by a panel of active instructors.
2. Then, prior to publication, a separate team of experts checked all text, examples, and graphics for mathematical accuracy; multiple reviewers were assigned to each chapter to minimize the chances of any error escaping notice.
3. A third team of experts was responsible for the accuracy of the Answer Key, dutifully re-working every solution to eradicate any lingering errors. Finally, the editorial team conducted a multi-round post-production review to ensure the integrity of the content in its final form.

Pedagogical foundations and features

Learning objectives

Each chapter is divided into multiple sections (or modules), each of which is organized around a set of learning objectives. The learning objectives are listed explicitly at the beginning of each section and are the focal point of every instructional element

Narrative text

Narrative text is used to introduce key concepts, terms, and definitions, to provide real-world context, and to provide transitions between topics and examples. Throughout this book, we rely on a few basic conventions to highlight the most important ideas:

• Key terms are boldfaced, typically when first introduced and/or when formally defined.
• Key concepts and definitions are called out in a blue box for easy reference.