Beginning Algebra

Symbolic reasoning and calculations with symbols are central in algebra. Students develop an understanding of the symbolic language of mathematics and sciences. Algebraic skills and concepts are developed and used in a wide variety of problem solving situations.

Students:

• Identify and use the arithmetic properties of subsets of integers, rational, irrational and real numbers.
• understand and use such operations as taking the opposite, reciprocal, raising to a power, and taking a root.
• simplify expressions prior to solving linear equations and inequalities in on variable
• solve multi-step problems, including work problems, involving linear equations and linear inequalities in one variable
• add, subtract, multiply and divide monomials and polynomials.
• apply algebraic techniques to rate problems, work problems, and percent mixture problems.
• understand the concepts of relation and a function, and determine whether a given relation defines a function.
• use and know simple aspects of a logical argument
• use properties of the number system to judge the validity of results, to justify each step of a procedure and to prove or disprove statements.