ELEMENTARY ALGEBRA BY ELMER A. LYMAN Professor of Mathematics in the Michigan State Normal College AND ALBERTUS DARNELL Head of Department of Mathematics, Central High School ас PREFACE THE object of this book is to provide a complete course in Elementary Algebra that will satisfy the requirements of courses of study in various states and of the College Entrance Board. Vitality has been given to the subject by imbuing it with the interest that accrues from connection with problems of everyday life and by careful correlation with arithmetic. The utility of algebra is emphasized from the start by showing how much easier it is to solve certain problems by algebra than by arithmetic. Simplicity is the keynote of the book. This effect is gained by omitting exercises of undue difficulty as well as troublesome phases of the subject that are not essential. A careful development of each new principle anticipates difficulties; and abundant illustrations and examples give further emphasis to the point at issue. The easy oral exercises assist in developing and fixing in mind the principles and processes. The written exercises are very abundant and range from the simplest type to some of sufficient difficulty to test the pupil's power and to provide adequate drill. Many of the exercises are taken from entrance examination questions set by various colleges and universities, the source being indicated in all such cases. The problems are practical and varied. They include applications to geometry, physics, engineering, agriculture and commerce, and various interests of everyday life. The importance of the equation is recognized throughout by abundance of practice. Thoroughness and accuracy are secured, first, by many reviews, and second, by the emphasis placed on the checking of results. Exercises designed to encourage an intelligent translation of algebraic language are provided early in the book. The application of algebraic principles to solutions by formulas has also been emphasized. Graphical representation is introduced in two chapters, but is so arranged that it may be omitted at the option of the teacher without interrupting the sequence of the work. ELMER A. LYMAN. ALBERTUS DARNELL. |