"“...the goal of this book is to help the users assess their understanding of the concepts of high school mathematics and... to use as a reference."
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Basic Mathematics for Grade 9:
Algebra and Geometry by Tesfaye Lema Bedane Trafford Publishing
book review by Jenny Luper
This guide to ninth grade mathematics endeavors to be a comprehensive reference book for algebraic, geometric, logical, and statistical concepts. The formulas and sample questions included within encompass a full and detailed range of linear equations, polynomials, quadratic, cubic, and rational functions, as well as postulates and standard deviations.
The author immediately dives into mathematical definitions and sample questions, prompting the reader to have pen and paper at the ready. Within the earlier chapters, efficiency is key. Bedane defines concepts within concepts, using brevity to quickly arrive at a solution which is then directly followed by sample problem. "The domain (the value of x) of this function is the set of all real numbers. The range (the value of y) of the function is the set of all real numbers."
While Bedane may at times begin to define a mathematical concept by mainly using an algebraic expression, if the reader is patient, the author gives a more detailed and simplified explanation further in the chapter. When discussing polynomials, Bedane first states "Any function that can be described by a polynomial in one variable, such as f(x) = 3x6 – 2x3 + x – 1, is called a polynomial function." However, the following pages give simple yet direct explanations of the same terms. "An expression containing more than three terms is called a multinomial or a polynomial."
Though at times too brief of explanations are delivered, if the reader is patient, clear and detailed descriptions are forthcoming. The later chapters on geometry, logic, and statistics show the author's increasing ease with the material. The opening explanations are thorough and straightforward, delving into the historical basis of the mathematical concepts.