In this first-semester course, students learn about algebraic concepts such as integers, linear equations, linear inequalities, and factoring. As students work through each interactive lesson, they will have the opportunity to complete several self-check activities, participate in newsgroup discussions, and complete journal entries. Completion of this course will help students to develop fundamental algebraic skills such as polynomial factoring, simplifying and evaluating expressions, and solving equations; apply algebraic problem-solving strategies to real-world situations; use graphing technology to interpret and solve equations and inequalities; and use graphical, numerical, and algebraic representations to communicate mathematical ideas, analyze mathematic situations, and explain correct computation procedures.