For courses in Beginning Algebra.

Understanding and applying mathematical concepts

The Bittinger Concepts and Applications Series is a proven program that prepares students to transition from skills-oriented elementary algebra to more concept-oriented college-level mathematics courses. Elementary Algebra helps foster the critical-thinking skills needed to reason mathematically, to communicate mathematically, and to identify and solve mathematical problems.

The 10th Edition offers a strong focus on problem-solving, applications, and concepts. Updated material, developed from the authors' classroom experience as well as insights from faculty, includes more systematic review and preparation for practice along with more real-world applications.

Hallmark features of this title

• The Bittinger 5-step problem-solving process repeated throughout helps students develop a consistent approach to setting up and solving problems: (1) Familiarize, (2) Translate, (3) Carry out, (4) Check, and (5) State the answer. This gives students a starting point for any type of problem, and frees them to focus on the unique aspects of the particular problem.
• Exploring the Concept, Algebraic-Graphical Connections, and optional Technology Connections encourage students to think about and visualize concepts.
• Connecting the Concepts summarize several sections, and are followed by Mixed Review exercises, to help students understand how concepts work together. Student Notes and Study Skills are strategically located throughout.
• Your Turn exercises appear after every example and direct students to work similar problems for immediate reinforcement of skills and concepts.
• Vocabulary and Reading Check exercises begin every exercise set. Aha! exercises encourage students to “look before they leap," and can be solved quickly without lengthy computation if the student has the proper insight. Skill Review exercises review all major concepts covered previously, and often focus on a single topic from multiple perspectives.
• End-of-chapter resources include Decision Making: Connections to prepare students for math use in day-to-day life, along with Translating for Success, Visualizing for Success, and Collaborative Activities.

New to this Edition

• Enhanced narrative helps students build their skills and understand key underlying concepts.
  • The exposition, examples, and exercises have been carefully reviewed and, as appropriate, revised or replaced.
  • New content includes more systematic review and preparation for practice, as well as stronger focus on the real-world applications for the math.
• Updated, interesting, and contemporary applications of mathematics, many of which make use of real data, help motivate students and instructors. The authors have updated real-world data examples and exercises to include subjects such as renewable energy, graduate-school acceptance, and zipline rides.
• Check Your Understanding offers students the chance to reflect on the concepts just discussed before beginning the exercise set. Working problems and answering questions helps students focus on the key skills and concepts just learned.