College Algebra

by Paul K. Rees

This text, designed for a course in College Algebra, has been written to maximize student comprehension. Great care has been taken to write a book that is mathematically correct and accessible to students. Emphasis is on computational skills, ideas, and problem solving rather than mathematical theory. Most derivations and proofs are omitted except where their inclusion adds significant insight into a particular concept. General concepts and results are usually presented only after particular cases have been discussed. The single most crucial topic is function. The function concept is introduced and developed from several points of view and is substantially motivated through many illustrations and examples. One of the primary objectives of this book is to give the student substantial experience in modeling and solving real world problems. Enough applications are included to convince even the most skeptical student that mathematics really is useful.

Paperback

Published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Michael Gerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not like math. When I was in high school, algebra nearly became an obstacle to my graduation. Then in college, it was again an onus. I failed my Algebra 101 class in the first term of my first year. Thus, I did not just like it; I hated it.

But, I think those subjects that make life difficult for you can eventually teach you a lot. They teach you to have more discipline. They teach you to study more. They teach you the value of perseverance.

When I took the class again the following year, I was really determined to get it right this time. I sat in front of the class. I listened intently. And I read this textbook.

I read the principles, studied the formulae, and assiduously did the exercises. And to my amazement, what was once esoteric was now lucid; I now understand! Fuzzy math was not fuzzy anymore. I grasped the beauty of special products and synthetic division. I realized the usefulness of linear and quadratic equations. And I gained the satisfaction of cracking a seemingly thorny problem with the use of the principles I learned.

I passed all the exams and when course card day came, it was not a surprise: I earned a grade of 4.0, the highest grade in the De La Salle University system and effectively removing the failure I once had. And when I took the next required math course, statistics, I again passed with flying colors.

I still have this textbook with me in my bookshelf, and every time I see it, it reminds me that with the right attitude, almost any problem can be solved. It is also a reminder that one can turn failure into opportunity to learn, and to succeed.

[Timothy Ondap]

g

[Omar San-Loz · Rating 5 out of 5]

El mejor.