Graphing calculators are integrated throughout the text to help students discover patterns and interpret data intelligently. Students construct their knowledge of a particular topic in a real-world context and then reinforce this knowledge through reflection, practice, and synthesis with other topics as they work through the text. Appropriate Courses Beginning Algebra. Features Discovery-based learning Students work collaboratively, constructing mathematical ideas in a social context and reflecting on these ideas with their peers to make sense out of problem situations and make connections among mathematical ideas. Multiple Representations Students can create numeric representations using tables, visual representations using function machines, geometric representations using graphs, and symbolic representations using equations.
Students also learn to analyze which representation works best to solve a particular problem.
Students use graphing calculators regularly and are often asked to explore mathematical ideas on the calculator or computer before these ideas are discussed in class. Each section of a chapter is comprised of several Investigations where students gather data and complete tasks on the page, actually writing parts of the text as they work. Students develop organizational skills and ownership of the material as they contribute to writing the investigations throughout the semester. 102 A Student Discourse feature provides a running dialogue between two students who discuss key points of confusion and draw connections among ideas. The last section of each chapter is a Chapter Review that contains a wide variety of review problems for students to investigate and asks students to reflect on the key ideas of the chapter.