Project 2061
Algebra Textbooks
A Standards-Based Evaluation


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Background Information

TITLE Algebra: Tools for a Changing World
Authors: Allan Bellman, Sadie Chavis Bragg, Suzanne H. Chapin, Theodore J. Gardella, Bettye C. Hall, William G. Handlin, Sr., and Edward Manfre.
Publisher: Prentice-Hall, Inc.
Edition: 1998
OVERVIEW
Subject Area: Algebra
Grade Level/Format: This textbook is appropriate for grades 8-12. The text consists of 11 chapters.
Time Frame: The course takes approximately 160 days to complete using traditional 40-45 minute class sessions. If used over two years, the course takes 320 days of 40-45 minute class sessions to complete. If block scheduling is used, the course takes approximately 80 days to complete.
CONTENT
Main Topics:
  • Tools of Algebra
  • Functions and Their Graphs
  • Algebraic Concepts and Simple Equations
  • Equations and Inequalities
  • Graphing and Writing Linear Equations
  • Systems of Equations and Inequalities
  • Quadratic Equations and Functions
  • Exponents and Exponential Functions
  • Right Triangles and Radical Expressions
  • Polynomials
  • Rational Expressions and Functions
Activities: In a typical chapter, students begin by reading about how an aspect of algebra relates to the real world. Students are given an overview of the chapter project. In each lesson, students (1) are told what they will learn and why; (2) participate in group activities and group discussions of the lessons, both of which may include commentary, demonstrations, and/or examples; (3) practice the concepts/skills of the lesson, including some problems from previous lessons that may be relevant to understanding the current math ideas and some challenge questions that prepare students for the next lesson. The chapter ends with students finishing the chapter project, reviewing terms and procedures, doing problems related to the math in each lesson and problems that prepare them for the next chapter, and completing an assessment section and a preparation section for standardized testing.
OPERATION
Assessment: Assessments include several resources found in the student edition, teacher's edition, and the teaching resources. There are chapter projects, sets of discussion questions in the Think and Discuss section, and Try This practice exercises. There are alternative assessments, which are self-assessment writing assignments such as journals and portfolios, assigned problems and chapter assessments, which consist of multiple choice, free response, and open-ended questions; and writing exercises. There are lesson quizzes, a selection of questions for the preparation of standardized testing, and cumulative assessments to assess student learning over several chapters. Other assessment items include the Interactive Student Tutorial CD-ROM of self-tests and a Computer Item Generator that allows teachers to customize tests for individual needs of students.
Cost: Student edition: $45.97
Teacher's edition: $79.97
CREDIBILITY Following are references for reports on Algebra: Tools for a Changing World. Please check the web site for further information about additional evaluations and reviews.
NCTM Standards Analysis: American Association for the Advancement of Science. (2000). Algebra textbooks: A standards-based evaluation. Washington, D.C.: Author
WEB SITE: http://www.phschool.com

 

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