Textbook in PDF format

Help for students and parents struggling to understand basic algebra. This second book in the Automated Math Resources Series uses online resources as an aid for traditional schooling, homeschooling and self-study of basic algebra. Itstarts with a review of how letters/symbols can be used to form mathematical expressions, equations and formulas. It then introduces inequalities; the rectangular coordinate (graphing) system; graphing, evaluating and solving linear equations/inequalities, solving systems of these equations/inequalities and working realistic word problems with both. Along with a summary (THE QUICK VERSION), each topic provides a direct link to an online calculator or converter that automatically solves associated problemsand provides a step-by-step explanation for each solution. Those students who want even further assistance can click over to another section (THE BIGGER PICTURE) to view a more detailed discussion with additional examples.
Mathematics provides the means for measuring and modeling our universe, the world around us and all aspects of our daily lives -- from our trips to the grocery store to the scientific discoveries and technological advancements that allow us to communicate globally, enjoy our modern lifestyles and reach for the stars.
Algebra provides the fundamental language for expressing mathematical relationships. It does so by extending the basic concepts of arithmetic – the addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of numerical values -- to include negative numbers and literal quantities. Using this more complete set of numerical values along with its “shorthand” notation of letters and symbols, it represents complex relationships in a compact, non-verbal manner. Hence, algebra has become the “universal language” of all forms of mathematics.
Literal quantities & Expressions.
Equations & Formulas (dependent & Independent Variables).
Inequalities.
Graphing (rectangular coordinate system).
Linear (first degree) equations.
Systems of (simultaneous) linear equations.
Linear (first degree) inequalities.
Systems of (simultaneous) linear inequalities.
Solving word problems.
Appendices:
Scientific notation (powers of 10).
Ratios, Percentages & Proportions.
Dimensional analysis.
Additional online calculators & Converters