Algebra: An Introductory Course (Gr 7-9)

I have used this book for four years in an eighth grade math course which emphasizes building a strong foundation in pre-algebra and some introductory algebra skills in preparation for a full year of algebra in the ninth grade. The text does not do a terrific job of explaining reasons why certain math concepts are valid, but the exercises are at just the right level for my eighth graders who are not in the advanced section. In some years, the course includes only part of this textbook: linear equations, fractions, decimals, percent, ratio, area/volume, and word problems. In other years, more of the material in the textbook has been covered, including harder topics like factoring quadratic polynomials and solving fractional equations. This textbook provides an opportunity for a teacher with a flexible curriculum to create just the right course each year for different groups of students. It could definitely be used for a basic ninth grade course in Algebra 1, but it would not be appropriate for more advanced students, because there are not any really challenging problems like the Mary Dolciani textbooks have.