Head First Algebra

Chapter 11. Real-World Algebra: Solve the world’s problems

The world’s got big problems... you’ve got big answers.

Hundreds of pages of math, and what do you really have? A bunch of x’s and y’s, a’s and b’s? Nope... you’ve got skills to solve for an unknown, even in the most difficult situations. So what’s that good for? Well, in this chapter, it’s all about the real world: you’re going to use your Algebra skills to solve some real problems. By the time you’re done, you’ll have won friends, influenced people, and saved yourself a whole bucket full of cash. Interested? Let’s get started.

Sharpen your pencil

Max has a lot to think about to get into the car of his dreams. Here are just a few of the pieces of paperwork Max has to consider... write down a few details to get Max started.

What are the algebraic unknowns you’ll need to deal with? _________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

What kinds of things are going to affect the costs of Max’s car? (What are things going to be “in terms of”?)

_____________________________________________________________________ ...