Pre-Algebra: Keeping It Simple provides students with a highly accessible approach to foundational mathematical concepts. The text is designed to help students develop basic math skills that will prepare them to succeed in more advanced algebra courses.
The text begins with a review of mathematical processes related to whole numbers, including adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, rounding, and estimation. The following chapter focuses on integers with coverage of exponents, order of operations, absolute value, and square roots. In later chapters, students learn mathematical processes related to fractions and decimals. The final chapter provides students with an introduction to algebra, including working with variables, simplifying expressions, solving linear equations, and understanding proportions. Throughout, the text features emphasis on application, demonstrating real-world use of the concepts in everyday life and other academic disciplines. Practice exams at the end of each chapter help students test their knowledge and reinforce key learnings.
Approachable in nature and written to help students master critical knowledge, Pre-Algebra is well suited for beginning courses in the discipline. It is an excellent choice for bridging or fast-track programs.
Judith Atkinson earned her master's degree in mathematics and her Ph.D. in civil engineering at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, where she currently teaches both face-to-face and online courses as a tenured professor. Her main focus has been developmental level algebra courses. Dr. Atkinson also teaches a math course for non-science majors, business algebra and calculus, and math for elementary school teachers. She helped develop the UAF Math Fast Track program and coauthored a textbook to go along with the program. Prior to entering the field of teaching, Dr. Atkinson worked as a civil engineer for the Alaska Department of Transportation.
