SUCCESS IN ALGEBRA

Common Questions asked by students How much math do I need to know before taking algebra? What is the best way to study? If I understand everything that goes on in class, can I take it easy on my homework?

How much math do I need to know before taking algebra? You should be able to do the four basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. Don’t be overly concerned with fractions! We will review fractions as we progress through the book.

What is the best way to study? The best way to study is to study consistently. Work problems every day Find a schedule that works for you. Example: Spend an hour or so in the morning working problems and reading over new material. Then, spend another hour in the evening working problems.

If I understand everything that goes on in class, can I take it easy on my homework? Not necessarily There is a big difference between understanding a problem someone else is working and working the same problem yourself. No substitute for working problems yourself. Concepts and properties are understandable to you only if you work problems involving them.

How to be Successful in Algebra

Attend all class sessions on time! You can’t know exactly what goes on in class unless you are there. Missing class and then expecting to find out what went on from someone else is NOT the same as being there yourself.

Read the book! Read the sections that will be covered in class beforehand. Reading in advance, even if you do not understand everything you read, is better than going to class with no idea of what will be discussed.

Work problems every day, and check your answers Key to success is working problems Answer to odd-numbered problems are given in back of book Compare your answers. If you made a mistake, find out what it is, and correct it.

Review for quizzes and tests Study the chapter summary Work the exercises in the Chapter Review Work the exercises in the Chapter Test Answers given in back of book Familiarize yourself with “A Brief Guide to Getting the Most from this Book” Use resources available with this book (optional –not required for this course) Solutions Manual Chapter Test Prep Video CD MyMathLab MathXL, online tutorial FREE Tutoring in Library at GHC

Don’t expect to understand every new topic the first time you see it This expectation can lead to disappointment and frustation. Understanding algebra takes time That’s just the way mathematics is. Don’t give up the first time

Spend as much time as it takes for you to master the material There is no set formula for the exact amount of time you need to spend on algebra to master it. RELAX – It’s probably not as difficult as you think.

Specific Details about this book Concepts are carefully explained Important definitions are set off in boxes Procedures are set off in boxes Examples are worked out step by step manner Check Point (similar practice problem) after an example Study Tips (in margins) Suggestions to avoid common errors Author tried to make practical and applicable to life