Algebra II For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Introduction

Here you are, contemplating reading a book on Algebra II. It isn’t a mystery novel, although you can find people who think mathematics in general is a mystery. It isn’t a historical account, even though you find some historical tidbits scattered here and there. Science fiction it isn’t; mathematics is a science, but you find more fact than fiction. As Joe Friday (star of the old Dragnet series) says, “The facts, ma’am, just the facts.” This book isn’t light reading, although I attempt to interject humor whenever possible. What you find in this book is a glimpse into the way I teach: uncovering mysteries, working in historical perspectives, providing information, and introducing the topic of Algebra II with good-natured humor. This book has the best of all literary types! Over the years, I’ve tried many approaches to teaching algebra, and I hope that with this book I’m helping you cope with and incorporate other teaching methods.

About This Book

Because you’re interested in this book, you probably fall into one of four categories:

• You’re fresh off Algebra I and feel eager to start on this new venture.
• You’ve been away from algebra for a while, but math has always been your main interest, so you don’t want to start too far back.
• You’re a parent of a student embarking on or having some trouble with an Algebra II class and you want to help.
• You’re just naturally curious about science and mathematics and you want to get to the good stuff that’s in Algebra II.

Whichever ...