Voice of Youth Advocates Reviews
Is it possible to make pre-algebra, algebra and writing painless? Barron's Painless series that includes pre-algebra, algebra, and writing, comes close to accomplishing this. The math books are written clearly and concisely. The text is descriptive and breaks concepts down in ways that make sense. There are examples that help explain the concepts and brain teasers that help readers apply what they have learned. The exercises help to solidify the learning and prepare for the next, more complex chapter. Topics in pre-algebra include: exponents, solving equations, and linear equation. The algebra topics include: graphing linear equations and inequalities, exponents, and roots and radicals. The index is comprehensive and helpful The writing book covers: cleaning up preposition clutter, spicing up your writing, silencing the passive voice, and activating and smoothing out your writing. There are actually nine techniques offered to help students improve their writing. The writing style of the book is relaxed and conversational while, at the same time, delivering excellent advice about writing and grammar. It includes examples and brain teasers as the math books do. The index is comprehensive The books are for middle through high school but would be useful for all ages. They would make great home-schooling as well as tutoring resources. The concepts and explanations are clear enough to make the books useful for self-instruction as well. These might be multiple copy purchases, as keeping these titles on the shelf could be a problem.—Susan Allen 3Q 4P M J S Copyright 2011 Voya Reviews.