Real World Algebra: Understanding the Power of Mathematics

As math curriculum coordinator (K-6) and teacher of gifted math (3rd - 6th), I have a large library of resources, but THIS is the one I use every year. I do not use the whole book, but certain chapters are the Go-To for specific concepts:Ch 1 - how to translate word problems to the language of algebraCh 2 - the basic procedures in problem-solvingAlso the chapter on Order of Operations is great - told as a story.I use Real World Algebra starting with 4th graders; for regular ed. (non-gifted), it certainly begins to be appropriate by 5th/6th. It will be invaluable for the ramped-up Common Core State Standards. As 4th graders will need to multiply and divide fractions now, approaching those skills algebraically with develop depth of understanding as well as rote algorithms. The writing style and format are very student friendly. There are three levels of practice questions for each skill; I like that there are do-able sets along with real stretches for the more confident students.NOTE: If you use the Hands-On Equations system, this book will develop the conceptual understanding that is somewhat neglected in that series.

Our daughter started her 9th grade Algebra course with a solid high B+, which grew to an A, then dropped to a D and an F. Part of this was due to her teacher changing horses mid-stream to teach a totally different method. It was a non-teaching teacher. Our daughter lost most of her confidence about doing any math. In order to help her prepare for 10th grade and make up for this bad final result, we purchased Real World Algebra.The reviews were what sold us. Zaccaro really clarifies algebra and makes it easy to understand. She has now gone through the entire book, is working on the make-up through her high school and is just flying through it. Had we not started her off on this book this summer, I'm certain we would have had much more difficulty getting her through the make-up. She is happy and back to feeling like she CAN do algebra. She refers to Zaccaro now when she needs any clarification on the make-up work.

I used this book with a group of students that were excelling in math. It was a good resource and I would recommend it.

We've only done the first 10 pages, and it has already helped my son understand how to take a word problem and put it into algebraic form. It also illustrates step by step, on how to solve for x. I showed my friend the book, and she ordered it too. We are both home-schoolers, but everyone knows that teachers can't possibly take personal time with every student, and a lot of students never ask for help outside of the classroom. These students end up doing poorly in class or transferring out. This book will help parents help their children. I believe it will help the beginner, and the more advanced.My son didn't like the illustrations, because he thought it made it look more childish, but I thought the illustrations made it more interesting.

I’m loving this book for my 8 year old child. When I started to read the first page to him, he was engaged with the interesting story immediately. He came back to the book by himself! I’ve never had a math book he voluntarily wanted to read. I thank the author for making such a fun book for children!

not for the middle school

This is a delightful series by a fun author. I am going through this book with my 10 year old daughter and she finds the chapters increasing in challenge level as she works through the problems (perfect!), and we have fun struggling through Algebra together. I wanted to prepare her for her first year of Algebra next year by starting the material now and it has been a great introduction to the fundamental concepts. Clearly presented and easy to use.

Not quite what I was hoping for, but, we're still in the early stages of the book. Was hoping a little more to answer the question "...when am I going to use this?" Still have hope it will provide it as we progress.