We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Algebra

Elementary to Advanced - Functions & Applications

Joseph W. Cutrone, PhD

After completing this course, students will learn how to successfully apply functions to model different data and real world occurrences. This course reviews the concept of a function and then provide multiple examples of common and uncommon types of functions used in a variety of disciplines. Formulas, domains, ranges, graphs, intercepts, and fundamental behavior are all analyzed using both algebraic and analytic techniques. From this core set of functions, new functions are created by arithmetic operations and function composition. These functions are then applied to solve real world problems. The ability to picture many different types of functions will help students learn how and when to apply these functions, as well as give students the geometric intuition to understand the algebraic techniques. The skills and objectives from this course improve problem solving abilities.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until August 30

Google AI App Builder

Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to Functions

A linear relationship between two variables occurs when there is a constant increase or constant decrease in one variable with respect to the other. Linear functions have the property that any chance in the independent variable results in a proportional change in the dependent variable. Many physical situations can be modeled using a linear relationship. Adding an extra term of the form ax^2 to a linear function creates a quadratic function, and its graph is the parabola. We will see examples of linear and quadratic functions and their applications in the sections that follow.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Builds a foundation for understanding graphical representation of functions

Implements graphical techniques to solve real world problems

Develops problem solving abilities

Develops skills for applying functions to model data and real world occurrences

Applicable to various disciplines

Introduces common and uncommon types of functions

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Algebra: functions & applications

According to students, this course provides an excellent foundation in algebra, particularly focusing on functions and their applications. Learners say the instructor offers clear explanations, making complex concepts accessible. The emphasis on real-world scenarios is highly valued, helping students understand how algebraic principles are applied. While the course is generally well-structured and praised for improving problem-solving abilities, some learners found the pace occasionally fast, suggesting a prior basic understanding of algebra is beneficial.

Generally comprehensive, but some seek more advanced depth.

"A very comprehensive introduction to functions. It reviews a lot of elementary algebra but then builds up to more advanced functions."

"The course content is decent, but I felt some parts, especially in Module 2, could have gone into more depth."

"It's a good overview, but maybe not enough for those seeking a really deep dive into advanced functions."

Pace can be quick; some prior algebra is helpful.

"My only minor critique is that sometimes the pace felt a bit fast when new concepts were introduced."

"While the content is theoretically sound, I felt it moved too quickly without enough foundational review for someone like me."

"I felt it was best for someone with some prior exposure to algebra, rather than a complete beginner."

Builds a solid base for advanced mathematical study.

"As someone who struggled with algebra in the past, this course provided a solid foundation."

"This course provided an excellent foundation for calculus and solidified my understanding for further studies."

"This course is brilliant! Highly recommend it to anyone in STEM or data analytics who needs to solidify their math skills."

Focus on real-world uses enhances understanding.

"I particularly appreciated the real-world applications, which made the material feel relevant and engaging."

"Loved how functions were applied to real-world problems. It helped me connect the abstract concepts to practical scenarios."

"It helped me model data effectively, which is exactly what I needed to prepare for my data science studies."

Instructor excels at making complex concepts accessible.

"The instructor is phenomenal, explaining concepts with such clarity."

"The instructor's explanations were incredibly clear, breaking down complex algebraic concepts into manageable pieces."

"Professor broke down challenging concepts in a very understandable way, making the lectures incredibly easy to follow."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Algebra: Elementary to Advanced - Functions & Applications with these activities:

Find a mentor who can help you with functions

Show steps

Having a mentor can help you learn about functions and improve your skills.

Browse courses on Functions

Show steps

Identify potential mentors within your personal and professional networks
Reach out to potential mentors and inquire about their willingness to provide guidance.
Discuss your goals and expectations with your mentor

Read and summarize the book 'Algebra and Trigonometry' by John H. Saxon, Jr.

Show steps

Read the book to deepen your understanding of functions.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Purchase the book
Set a goal for when you will complete the book
Break the book into smaller chunks

Compile a list of websites that offer practice problems on functions

Show steps

Compiling a list of websites that offer practice problems on functions.

Show steps

Search for websites that offer practice problems on functions
Create a list of the websites
Share the list with other students

Three other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all six activities

Solve equations involving linear and quadratic functions

Show steps

Solve equations involving linear and quadratic functions.

Browse courses on Linear Functions

Show steps

Identify the type of function
Apply the appropriate algebraic techniques
Check your answer

Graph functions

Show steps

Graphing functions can help you visualize their behavior and understand their properties.

Browse courses on Linear Functions

Show steps

Plot the points
Connect the points
Label the axes

Create a poster on the different types of functions

Show steps

Create a poster outlining different types of functions and their applications.

Browse courses on Functions

Show steps

Research different types of functions
Design the poster
Print the poster

Career center

Learners who complete Algebra: Elementary to Advanced - Functions & Applications will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data scientists use data to solve business problems. They use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze data, and to develop models and algorithms to predict future outcomes. Algebra is essential for data scientists to understand the underlying principles of data analysis, and to develop models and algorithms that are accurate and reliable. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for data scientists to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Statistician

Statisticians use mathematical and statistical techniques to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of statistics, and to develop models to analyze data. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for statisticians to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Investment Banker

Investment bankers use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data and make investment recommendations. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of finance, and to develop models to assess risk and return. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for investment bankers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Banker

Market Researcher

Market researchers use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze market data and make recommendations. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of market research, and to develop models to predict consumer behavior. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for market researchers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Operations Research Analyst

Operations research analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to solve problems in business and industry. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of operations research, and to develop models to optimize systems and processes. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for operations research analysts to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data and make investment recommendations. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of finance, and to develop models to assess risk and return. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for quantitative analysts to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Risk Manager

Risk managers use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of risk management, and to develop models to assess and manage risk. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for risk managers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Software Engineer

Software engineers use mathematical and statistical techniques to develop software. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of software engineering, and to develop algorithms and data structures. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for software engineers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data and make investment recommendations. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of finance, and to develop models to assess risk and return. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for financial analysts to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Actuary

Actuaries use mathematical and statistical skills to assess risk and uncertainty. They apply this knowledge to problems in insurance, finance, and other fields. Algebra is essential for actuaries to understand the underlying principles of risk and uncertainty, and to develop models to assess and manage risk. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for actuaries to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Economist

Economists use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze economic data and make policy recommendations. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of economics, and to develop models to analyze economic data. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for economists to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Financial Planner

Financial planners use mathematical and statistical techniques to help clients plan for their financial future. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of finance, and to develop financial plans for clients. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for financial planners to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Planner

Operations Manager

Operations managers use mathematical and statistical techniques to manage business operations. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of operations management, and to develop models to optimize systems and processes. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for operations managers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager

Product Manager

Product managers use mathematical and statistical techniques to develop and launch new products. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of product management, and to develop models to analyze market data and make product decisions. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for product managers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Teacher

Teachers use mathematical and statistical techniques to teach students about math and statistics. They use algebra to understand the underlying principles of math and statistics, and to develop lesson plans and activities to teach students. This course provides a solid foundation in algebra, including the study of functions and their applications. This knowledge is essential for teachers to be successful in their careers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Algebra: Elementary to Advanced - Functions & Applications.

Calculus: Early Transcendentals, Student Solutions...

Save

Provides a comprehensive introduction to the concepts of calculus. It is particularly useful for students who are planning to take further courses in mathematics or who need to use calculus in their work.

Calculus: Early Transcendentals Single Variable,...

Kindle Edition

$$$

Algebra

Elementary to Advanced - Functions & Applications

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Algebra: functions & applications

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses