U Can: Algebra I For Dummies

Introduction 1Part I Getting Started with Algebra I 5chapter 1: Assembling Your Tools 7chapter 2: Deciphering Signs in Expressions 19chapter 3: Incorporating Algebraic Properties 35chapter 4: Making Fractions and Decimals Behave 47chapter 5: Exploring Exponents 77chapter 6: Taming Rampaging Radicals 89chapter 7: Simplifying Algebraic Expressions 103Part II Changing the Format of Expressions 121chapter 8: Working with Numbers in Their Prime 123chapter 9: Specializing in Multiplication Matters 139chapter 10: Dividing the Long Way to Simplify Algebraic Expressions 161chapter 11: Figuring on Factoring 171chapter 12: Taking the Bite out of Binomial Factoring 185chapter 13: Factoring Trinomials and Special Polynomials 195Part III Sleuthing For Solutions of Equations 221chapter 14: Establishing Ground Rules for Solving Equations 223chapter 15: Lining Up Linear Equations 237chapter 16: Muscling Up to Quadratic Equations 265chapter 17: Yielding to Higher Powers 289chapter 18: Reeling in Radical and Absolute Value Equations 315chapter 19: Getting Even with Inequalities 329Part IV Solving Story Problems and Skething Graphs 349chapter 20: Facing Up to Formulas 351chapter 21: Making Formulas Work in Basic Story Problems 377chapter 22: Relating Values in Story Problems 401chapter 23: Measuring Up with Quality and Quantity Story Problems 411chapter 24: Getting a Handle on Graphing 425chapter 25: Extending the Graphing Horizon 451Part V The Part of Tens 475chapter 26: Ten Common Errors That Get Noticed 477chapter 27: Ten Quick Tips to Make Algebra a Breeze 483Index 489

Mary Jane Sterling taught algebra at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, for 35 years.