In Intermediate Algebra, we start a brief review of linear functions, then
a statistical project using data gathered from a surveyof the class, then
probability and logic. We then
spend much time on exponentials, drawing heavily from relevant
problems, especially local and national news. We do many data gathering
and analysis activities in class, until students begin to recognize and
predict exponential and logarithmic behavior in economics (compound
interest, depreciation), biology, ecology, sociology, chemistry, etc.
Linear systems, inequalities, and matrices complete the course. Our
traditional Intermediate Algebra textbook emphasized rote memorization of
abstract skills, and word problems that prevented much critical thinking,
and a very short segment on exponentials and logarithms, so we replaced it
with lab sheets and modules. A textbook will be required next semester;
the current Intermediate Algebra students helped to review sample
textbooks. Their favorite was "Mathematical Models" by Robert Kimball
(Prentice Hall publisher). I like it too, but like most Intermediate
Algebra books, it contains little about exponential functions, so common in
nature and society that I feel they deserve at least as much emphasis as
linear functions.
A close second in the student survey was the NKATE project Intermediate
Algebra book by Abney, et al. (Addison Wesley), then Intermediate Algebra
by Larson/Hostetler , published by Heath (this was the favorite of
students who excelled in traditional math). The book "Making Sense of
Intermediate Algebra" by Kysh, et al. (AddisonWesley), just arrived and it
looks interesting, containing the best coverage of exponentials of the
reform textbooks. If anyone has used these texts I welcome any comments.
For College Algebra, we used Earth Algebra by Schaufele and Zumoff (Harper
Collins) for three semesters and was very pleased. However, our dean was
convinced that it was too radically environmental for our conservative
community, so at his insistence, we changed to Explorations in College
Algebra by Kime (Wiley Press). I am delighted with its integration of math
with other subjects and depth of topics. The Kime book contains articles
on math topics for students to read, detailed directions for using the
graphing calculator, and excellent demonstration and math activity
software.
More textbooks are being published that follow the AMATYC and NCTM
standards, so we can look forward to more and better choices in the future.
Shay Cardell
Central Arizona College
cardell@azstarnet.com
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