Emphasis on Problem-SolvingWe introduce our six-step problem-solving
method in Chapter 2 and integrate it throughout the text. The six steps, Read, Assign
a Variable, Write an Equation, Solve, State the Answer,and Check,are emphasized
in boldface type and repeated in examples and exercises to reinforce the problem-
solving process for students. (See pages 69 and 234.) We also provide students with
boxes that feature helpful problem-solving tips and
strategies. (See pages 81 and 233.)
ConnectionsWe include these to give students another avenue for making connec-
tions to the real world, graphing technology, or other mathematical concepts, as well
as to provide historical background and thought-provoking questions for writing,
class discussion, or group work. (See pages 117 and 143.)
Ample and Varied Exercise SetsOne of the most commonly mentioned strengths
of this text is its exercise sets. We include a wealth of exercises to provide students
with opportunities to practice, apply, connect, review, and extend the algebraic con-
cepts and skills they are learning. We also incorporate numerous illustrations, tables,
graphs, and photos to help students visualize the problems they are solving. Problem
types include writing , graphing calculator , multiple-choice, true/false, matching,
and fill-in-the-blank problems, as well as the following:
N Concept Checkexercises facilitate students’ mathematical thinking and concep-
tual understanding. (See pages 108 and 413.)
N WHAT WENT WRONG? exercises ask students to identify typical errors in solu-
tions and work the problems correctly. (See pages 274 and 502.)
N Brain Bustersexercises challenge students to go beyond the section examples.
(See pages 145 and 300.)
N exercises help students tie together topics and develop
problem-solving skills as they compare and contrast ideas, identify and describe
patterns, and extend concepts to new situations. These exercises make great
collaborative activities for pairs or small groups of students. (See pages 173
and 301.)
N exercises provide an opportunity for students to
interpret typical results seen on graphing calculator screens. Actual screens from
the TI-83/84 Plus graphing calculator are featured. (See pages 146 and 353.)
N allow students to reviewpreviously-studied concepts
and previewskills needed for the upcoming section. These make good oral warm-
up exercises to open class discussions. (See pages 283 and 371.)
Special Summary ExercisesWe include a set of these popular in-chapter exer-
cises in selected chapters. They provide students with the all-important mixedreview
problemsthey need to master topics and often include summaries of solution meth-
ods and/or additional examples. (See pages 394 and 522.)
Extensive Review Opportunities We conclude each chapter with the following
review components:
N A Chapter Summarythat features a helpful list of Key Terms,organized by
section, New Symbols, Test Your Word Powervocabulary quiz (with answers
immediately following), and a Quick Reviewof each section’s contents, com-
plete with additional examples (See pages 483– 486.)
PREVIEW EXERCISES
TECHNOLOGY INSIGHTS
RELATING CONCEPTS
xii Preface
PROBLEM-SOLVING HINT
