This worktext was written to provide students with a solid foundation in algebra as well as to hilp develop their problem-solving skills. Specific care was taken to ensure that students have the most up-to-date relevant text preparation for their next mathematics course of for nonmathematical courses that require an understanding of algebraic fundamentals. I have tried toachieve this by writing a user-friendly text that is keyed to objectives and contains many worked-out examples.

As suggested by the AMATYC Crossroads Document and the NCTM Standards (plus Addenda), real-life and real- data applications, data interpretation, conceptual   understanding , problemsolving,writin, cooperative learning, appropriate use of technologhy,mental mathematics, number sense, critical thinking, and geometric concepts are emphasized and integrated throughout the book.

Chapter 1 Real Numbers and Algebraic Expressions
Chapter 2 Equations, Inequalities, and Problem Solving
Chapter 3 Graphs and Functions
Chapter 4 Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Chapter 5 Polynomials and Polynomial Functions
Chapter 6 Rational Expressions
Chapter 7 Rational Exponents, Radicals, and Complex Numbers
Chapter 8 Quadratic Equations and Functions
Chapter 9 Conic Sections
Chapter 10 Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
etc.