Introductory Algebra for College Students (5th Edition) Review

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Introductory Algebra for College Students (5th Edition) ReviewI have to confess to a certain degree of academic snobbery when it comes to books on science and math. That is, I tend to look for books produced by PhDs in a specific field who teach at prestigious universities or for collaborations of them. I do, however, pride myself on giving credit where credit is due, and this volume is certainly an example. According to the text's introduction Robert Blitzer, the author of Introductory Algebra for College Students, has a BA in math and psychology with a minor in English literature, an MA in math, and a doctorate in behavioral sciences and teaches in a local community college in Florida. That's quite an eclectic vita. In this case it is an ideal vita, that of a teacher dedicated to student comprehension of his subject.
The author approaches student learning from a variety of directions, some uniquely oriented to specific types of mental framework. He presents, for instance, visual guides for those who need to "see it to understand it"-my particular favorites are the sets that compose all real numbers on p. 19 [3rd ed.] and the graphs of systems of linear inequalities like those on pp 312-313, because they make these topics so crystal clear. Elsewhere he introduces the concept of matrices, putting information into columns under appropriate headings so that one can see what information one has, what one needs and what has to be manipulated with what to achieve an answer (i.e. "Solving a Solution Mixture Problem," p. 173.) Remember those threatening word problems involving things like that Greyhound bus and the car approaching one another, or the two planes traveling in opposite directions? Piece of cake. The author also gives instructions for scientific and graphic calculators for those who are especially in tune with technology-I have yet to try this, because for my money it's a whole different learning parameter in itself. He also puts some of the algebraic expressions into a useable context. The student finds equations in economics, health sciences, physics, population demographics, athletics, nutrition, sociology, politics, in short most of the areas of student interest and student majors. More than anything, Blitzer makes math useable, accessible, and relevant. It's not just a subject we have to pass to take the classes we really want, it's a skill that helps us with decision making in everyday life.
Some of the data the author uses to create his equations come from industry, education, census data, the cinema industry, simple everyday problems like fencing a yard or deciding on the respective values of a large size or two medium sized pizzas! These situations provide some unique educational experience, not simply because they allow the student to understand the underlying mathematical concepts of solving a specific problem. They are themselves very instructive in reality. What does it matter if two cans of peaches that cost the same are shaped differently ( i.e. if one is six inches in diameter and five inches in height while the other is 5 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height are they really the same value?) How fast does the cost of an education climb over time (i.e. will you be able to afford it for yourself? your kids? Should one get involved in the politics of education?) What is the difference between the rate of increase in salaries for those without high school educations vis a vis those with high school diplomas and those with four years of college (i.e. you may be making the same as a drop out at the beginning, but where will your income be relative to theirs in five years? In ten? In 15? Are you really to busy to get more education? Is that math class really too difficult to get through a degree?) One gains some very important insights into real life just by doing the math that underlines the decisions life presents the average person.
As with any textbook in math, however, the student is an important part of the learning process. If you only do the assigned problems, or if you skip the cumulative reviews at the end of each chapter because you've "already learned all that," you may have perfect daily work but fail your exams. There is, after all, a difference between getting an answer correct, especially with the help of the book, and getting the underlying concept so that you can apply it in new situations.
I think this text would be a wonderful way for adults who are math shy by virtue of unpleasant early experiences to get more out of the subject. It would certainly give parents, whose math skills are poor or just covered with dust, to help their children with this discipline. It would also help college algebra students to prime themselves for more advanced math or for taking a college level algebra course that uses a more confusing text.Introductory Algebra for College Students (5th Edition) OverviewKEY BENEFIT: The Blitzer Algebra Series combines mathematical accuracy with an engaging, friendly, and often fun presentation for maximum student appeal. Blitzer's personality shows in his writing, as he draws students into the material through relevant and thought-provoking applications. Every Blitzer page is interesting and relevant, ensuring that students will actually use their textbook to achieve success!KEY TOPICS: Variables, Real Numbers, and Mathematical Models; Linear Equations and Inequalities in One Variable; Problem Solving; Linear Equations and Inequalities in Two Variables; Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities; Exponents and Polynomials; Factoring Polynomials; Rational Expressions; Roots and Radicals; Quadratic Equations and Introduction to Functions.MARKET: for all readers interested in algebra.

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