A Balanced Approach: Form, Function, and Fluency
Form follows function. The form of a wing follows from the function of flight. Similarly, the form of an algebraic expression or equation reflects its function. To use algebra in later courses, students need not only manipulative skill, but fluency in the language of algebra, including an ability to recognize algebraic form and an understanding of the purpose of different forms.

Restoring Meaning to Expressions and Equations
After introducing each type of function—linear, power, quadratic, exponential, polynomial—the text encourages
students to pause and examine the basic forms of expressions for that function, see how they are constructed, and consider the different properties of the function that the different forms reveal. Students also study the types of equations that arise from each function.

Maintaining Manipulative Skills: Review and Practice
Acquiring the skills to perform basic algebraic manipulations is as important as recognizing algebraic forms. Algebra: Form and Function provides sections reviewing the rules of algebra, and the reasons for them, throughout
the book, numerous exercises to reinforce skills in each chapter, and a section of drill problems on solving equations at the end of the chapters on linear, power, and quadratic functions.

Students with Varying Backgrounds
Algebra: Form and Function is thought-provoking for well-prepared students while still accessible to students with weaker backgrounds, making it understandable to students of all ability levels. By emphasizing the basic ideas of algebra, the book provides a conceptual basis to help students master the material. After completing this course, students will be well-prepared for Precalculus, Calculus, and other subsequent courses in mathematics
and other disciplines.