ABOUT PRE-ALGEBRA

The goal of the Pre-algebra program is the learner's successful application of problem-solving techniques to a solid core of secondary math fundamentals.

Pre-algebra is appropriate for libraries, community colleges, vocational schools, adult basic education programs, correctional facilities, alternative schools, workplace education programs, and basic skills programs in other settings. The series is designed for individual use. However, the series offers explanations of fundamental concepts that can serve as an introduction to group instruction when this is desirable.

The Video Component

Pre-algebra utilizes the GED on TV series produced by KET, the public broadcasting network of Kentucky and a leading producer of educational programming. The pre-algebra series continues the video from Math 3 as the students move into an area of pre-algebra in their studies. The series received the Wilbur Schramm Award of Excellence for instructional television.

The Multimedia Components

Five multimedia books composed of three to six chapters each
Hundreds of screens of instruction that blend information in text, graphics, and segments of instructional video
Hours of instructional video incorporated within the five books
Hundreds of test questions and interactive exercise questions with feedback

Online tools:     calculator   
                  English dictionary with Spanish translation
                  thesaurus
                  instructional text narration

Automatic record keeping of test and exercise scores as well as time in books

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN PRE-ALGEBRA

Book 1 - Signed Numbers
Identify signed numbers on the number line.
Interpret absolute value.
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide signed numbers.
Find unknown quantity using inverse operations.
Substitute values and evaluate to check an answer.
Book 2 - Solving Equations
Apply appropriate sequence of operations.
Calculate square roots by estimating and averaging.
Simplify polynomials.
Use simultaneous equations to solve for unknowns.
Solve a literal equation for a designated variable.
Apply the Pythagorean Theorem.
Book 3 - Geometry
Determine degrees in an angle.
Find lengths of sides of triangles using properties of similar triangles and the Pythagorean Theorem.
Determine whether two triangles are similar using the Pythagorean Theorem and cross multiplication.
Find the perimeter and area of geometric figures.
Book 4 - Measurement
Convert one measurement to another.
Find unit values.
Solve problems involving different measures.
Compute perimeter, area, and volume for various objects.
Book 5 - Problem-solving
Translate literal statements into algebraic statements.
Substitute values in algebraic statements and evaluate.
Solve everyday problems using a problem-solving approach.
Solve word problems involving more than one unknown.