Elementary and Intermediate Algebra: Functions & Authentic Applications

Algebra becomes more meaningful when equations are connected to the world they describe. In Elementary and Intermediate Algebra: Functions & Authentic Applications, Jay Lehmann develops algebraic ideas alongside real-world data, guiding students from foundational operations toward functions, equations, and mathematical models.

This third edition offers a broad course of study, with chapters that build from variables and linear relationships through polynomial, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and radical functions. Applications drawn from areas such as sports, elections, technology, and everyday economics give students a reason to ask not just how an equation works, but what it can help explain.

Algebra with a connection to real data

Modeling is woven into the text rather than saved for a final chapter. Students encounter authentic data, learn to represent relationships, and use equations and functions to make estimates and predictions. This approach places algebraic procedures in context and gives abstract concepts a practical point of reference.

From first expressions to functions

The material begins with variables, expressions, operations, graphing, and slope. It then develops linear functions and systems before moving into polynomial operations, factoring, quadratic equations, and models. Later chapters introduce exponential and logarithmic functions, rational and radical functions, and sequences and series.

Practice, review, and investigation

Chapter summaries, key points, review exercises, chapter tests, and cumulative reviews give learners regular opportunities to check their understanding and revisit earlier skills. The book also includes lab investigations connected to its mathematical topics, along with appendices on graphing-calculator use and StatCrunch.

For students building algebra foundations

With its progression from elementary through intermediate algebra, this textbook is suited to students working through a substantial algebra course and strengthening the skills needed for later mathematics. Its blend of explanation, practice, and data-centered applications makes it a useful choice for readers who want to see how algebraic ideas connect to practical questions.