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Add a SummaryDanica McKellar, an actress who graduated summa cum laude from U. C. L. A. with a B. S. in mathematics, has written a supplement to an elementary algebra course. She covers variables; algebraic expressions; rational expressions; operations on algebraic expressions; linear equations; absolute value equations; absolute value inequalities; function notation; equations of lines; systems of linear equations; solving word problems involving rates, percents, and mixtures; exponents; square roots; polynomials; operations on polynomials; solving quadratic equations by factoring, by completing the square, and by using the Quadratic Formula; and the discriminant of a quadratic equation. She includes testimonials from women who once struggled with mathematics, worked hard, and now find themselves using mathematics in their jobs. She also includes advice about how to control your feelings and avoid distractions, among other things.
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Add a CommentAs usual McKellar does a great job of making difficult concepts very practical. My only criticism is the Watch Out sections give the wrong answers, but fails to share the correct solutions. This book explores Algebra in a fun, approachable way.
Not to be missed. My daughter entered a national math contest and promptly thought nothing of it until the day of the test. I had bought the book and she read it two weeks before the test. So with no preparation she took the test and scored in the top 10% across the nation. She told me that the book had covered most of the content of the test and it was the only reason she did so well. (she has read all three books) A very easy to read book with many incredibly useful tricks to help you succeed at math.
Danica McKellar, an actress who graduated summa cum laude from U. C. L. A. with a B. S. in mathematics, has written a supplement to an algebra text for girls who struggle with mathematics. Her coverage of algebra actually began with her previous volume, Kiss My Math: Showing Pre-algebra Who's Boss. I would advise reading that book before starting this one since she treats topics like solving linear equations in one variable in greater detail there. This text covers algebraic expressions; linear equations and inequalities in one variable; absolute value equations and inequalities in one variable; word problems involving rates and percents, including mixture problems; equations of lines; systems of linear equations; exponents; square roots; polynomials; and solving quadratic equations. Throughout, McKellar provides clear explanations and demonstrations of how to solve the problems. That said, some of the problems are challenging (such as the mixture problems), so reading slowly and carefully, then rereading is advisable. McKellar does a particularly good job of explaining systems of linear equations and the rules of exponents. However, she does not always explain why her methods work. This is particularly noticeable in her coverage of the equations of lines, where she fails to explain how to obtain the equation of a nonvertical line using its slope (skipping the point-slope form). In addition to teaching students algebra, McKellar provides sound advice about studying, managing your time, managing your emotions, and personal relationships.
Great book if your girly and confuse in math!
Go on, girls. Kick some math booty!