Prealgebra

Prealgebra, 2/e

K. Elayn Martin-Gay, University of New Orleans, Lakefront

Published March, 1997 by Prentice Hall Engineering/Science/Mathematics

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Prealgebra (Basic Math with very Early Algebra)-Mathematics

Summary

This text's clear, well-constructed and straightforward writing style makes it accessible to even the most apprehensive math students. The primary focus of the pedagogy, presentation and other elements is to ease the transition into algebra; for example, emphasis is placed on basic arithmetic operations within algebraic contexts. The Second Edition includes a greater integration of NCTM and AMATYC standards, including more emphasis on visualization, problem solving and data analysis.

Features

Variables (Ch. 1) and signed numbers (Ch. 2) are introduced early and frequently referred to throughout. Students benefit from this early and repeated exposure and are encouraged to think mathematically.
Accessible Presentation:

Writing style is clear and direct.
Many explanations are provided.
Pedagogy is ample and accessible.

Treatment of calculators is integrated in separate boxes and noted in exercise sets to give Instructors flexibility on when and how they want to integrate technology into their course.
Mental Math boxes ask students to employ analytical skills and solve problems intuitively and without a pencil. They can be used as in-class oral exercises or as preludes to exercise sets.
Conceptual Exercises, identified by an icon, are written to help students asses their understanding of concepts in a section.

Also helps develop pattern recognition.

The paperback format can double as a workbook. Notes can be written in margins, solutions can be worked right next to problems.
Practice Problems are found in the margins next to examples - this allows students to check their understanding of a concept before continuing.
Cumulative Reviews in every chapter include worked examples from previous chapters. Students can find the answers in an appendix, as well as a reference to where the problem first appeared so that a complete solution is available to them if needed.

Similar Skill Reviews are featured at the end of every section.

Group Activities at the end chapters emphasize critical thinking and problem solving.
Problem Solving exercises are featured throughout and are highlighted in exercise sets.
Geometry concepts and applications are incorporated where appropriate.
NEW—Emphasis on analyzing data has been increased. Bar graphs, circle graphs, and real data are included where applicable to emphasize the (sometimes visual) connection between data analysis and math.

Teaches students the importance and purpose of reading charts and graphs.

NEW—A step by step problem-solving approach is featured with a variety of realistic problems.
NEW—Skills Practice applied exercises throughout help mathematically challenged students make connections between math, other courses and the real world.
NEW—Unique chapter openers feature vignettes and related photographs demonstrating real-life applications of mathematics. Vignettes are summarized at ends of chapters with boxes stressing problem- solving critical thinking skills, and group activities.

Can be used as collaborative activities.

NEW—All problem-solving sections have been updated to incorporate real data from a variety of disciplines: environmental science, allied health, astronomy, business, etc.

USA Today and other well-known sources are used.

NEW—Reminders (formerly Helpful Hints) alert students to trouble areas and provide encouragement and suggestions to avoid common errors.
NEW—Definitions are clearly explained, both visually (definitions are summarized and highlighted by color) and by worked example. Ideal for visual learners, and/or for those who learn best by example.

Table of Contents

(NOTE: Each chapter ends with highlights, review, test and cumulative review.)