Algebra Essentials Practice Workbook with Answers: Linear & Quadratic Equations, Cross Multiplying, and Systems of Equations

by Chris McMullen

This "Algebra Essentials Practice Workbook with Answers" provides ample practice for developing fluency in very fundamental algebra skills - in particular, how to solve standard equations for one or more unknowns. These algebra 1 practice exercises are relevant for students of all levels - from grade 7 thru college algebra. This workbook is conveniently divided up into seven chapters so that students can focus on one algebraic method at a time. Skills include solving linear equations with a single unknown (with a separate chapter dedicated toward fractional coefficients), factoring quadratic equations, using the quadratic formula, cross multiplying, and solving systems of linear equations. Not intended to serve as a comprehensive review of algebra, this workbook is instead geared toward the most essential algebra skills. An introduction describes how parents and teachers can help students make the most of this workbook. Students are encouraged to time and score each page. In this way, they can try to have fun improving on their records, which can help lend them confidence in their math skills.PRACTICE: With no pictures, this workbook is geared strictly toward learning the material and developing fluency through practice.EXAMPLES: Each section begins with a few pages of instructions for how to solve the equations followed by a few examples. These examples should serve as a useful guide until students are able to solve the problems independently.ANSWERS: Answers to exercises are tabulated at the back of the book. This helps students develop confidence and ensures that students practice correct techniques, rather than practice making mistakes.

Genres: Mathematics, Education, Nonfiction, Algebra

209 pages, Paperback

First published July 12, 2010

About the author

Dr. Chris McMullen has over 20 years of experience teaching university physics in California, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. Dr. McMullen is also an author of math and science books. Whether in the classroom or as a writer, Dr. McMullen loves sharing knowledge and the art of motivating and engaging students.

Chris McMullen earned his Ph.D. in phenomenological high-energy physics (particle physics) from Oklahoma State University in 2002. Originally from California, Dr. McMullen earned his Master's degree from California State University, Northridge, where his thesis was in the field of electron spin resonance.

Dr. McMullen is well-known for:
• engaging students in challenging ideas through creativity
• breaking difficult problems down into manageable steps
• providing clear and convincing explanations to subtle issues
• his mastery of physics and strong background in mathematics
• helping students become more fluent in practical math skills

As a physics teacher, Dr. McMullen observed that many students lack fluency in fundamental math skills. In an effort to help students of all ages and levels master basic math skills, he published a series of math workbooks on arithmetic, fractions, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus called the Improve Your Math Fluency Series. Dr. McMullen has also published a variety of science books, including introductions to basic astronomy and chemistry concepts in addition to physics workbooks.

Dr. McMullen is very passionate about teaching. Many students and observers have been impressed with the transformation that occurs when he walks into the classroom, and the interactive engaged discussions that he leads during class time. Dr. McMullen is well-known for drawing monkeys and using them in his physics examples and problems, using his creativity to inspire students. A stressed-out student is likely to be told to throw some bananas at monkeys, smile, and think happy physics thoughts.

Dr. McMullen first published The Visual Guide to Extra Dimensions, Volumes 1 and 2, to share his passion for the geometry and physics of the fourth dimension. Dr. McMullen has coauthored a half-dozen articles on current and future collider searches for large extra dimensions.

In addition to writing and teaching, Dr. McMullen enjoys Scrabble, golf, and chess.

Reviews

[Pete Haavisto · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is only math book I have ever finished so far. It is also best math book I have ever encountered.
And not only best math book I have ever read it is also one of the best BOOKS I have ever read. Doing all over 2500 problems of this book was a really interesting adventure. It was like Lord of The Rings but this time you were the main character and you had to do all the battles.

[rajnish kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice

Very Good book for practice on equation a 2 z a a q a a a a a a a

[Nicole Danielle]

iijnhuui

[Jeganathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing! My 9 year old son has learned ALGEBRA WITH THIS BOOK ONLY!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I chose by this author. I have been refreshing my algebra skills and this book was a great help.

[Evan Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a great book that helped me refresh my rusty algebra skills. 

[Delan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't done algebra in a long time and I wanted to brush up on my algebra. Chris McMullen has provided a great algebra book that walks you through and shows you how to correctly solve an algebra problem. It helps that the author provides an explanation of how and why you work a problem a certain way. The only problem I had was the answer key is a bit difficult to decipher.

This book was provided through Goodreads First Read program. Which I'm grateful for because I got to brush up on my math skills. Thanks Goodreads and Chris!

[Lili · Rating 5 out of 5]

I revived this book from Goodread's First Read program in exchange for a fair review.

I have to admit, it has been a long time since I sat down and worked on algebra, it was past time for a refresher on the subject. This book is quite useful for that, or if it is your first time learning algebra and need extra practice.