Accuplacer Math Crash Course Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Presenter: Mr. Tui Crea
• Course: Accuplacer Math Crash Course
• Focus: Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics sections
• Announcement: New updates with more questions included
• Unique test-taking strategies provided
• Full course access available via a link

Course Session - Day 5 Update

• Main topic: Quantitative Reasoning Algebra and Statistics section
• Introduced latest questions and concepts

Problem Solving Approach

Question Strategy

• Understanding Problem Terminology: Focus on the word "equivalent" meaning "the same as" or "equal to."
• Order of Operations (PEMDAS):
  • Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction
  • Importance of simplifying expressions correctly

Example Problem: Simplifying Expressions

• Problem: Simplify the expression: -14 - 8 * 0.5 + 0.75
• Solution Strategy:
  • Start with multiplication: 8 * 0.5 = 4
  • Rewrite expression: -14 - 4 + 0.75
  • Perform operations left to right for addition/subtraction:
    • -14 - 4 = -18
    • -18 + 0.75 = -17.25
  • Correct answer: -17.25

Example Problem: Solving Inequalities

• Problem Setup: Using a $100 gift card to purchase items
• Variables: n represents the number of sweaters
• Strategy: Plug in values for n to find a valid inequality
  • Ensure calculations meet constraints of the problem (total cost does not exceed $100)
• Correct Answer: Evaluate inequalities to find correct relationship

Example Problem: Equivalent Expressions

• Task: Identify equivalent expression to a given complex expression
• Strategy: Use Plug-in Values technique
  • Choose a value for n, compute both the given expression and the answer choices
  • Match results to find equivalent expression

Example Problem: Systems of Equations

• Problem Setup: Determining the number of items bought with specified conditions
• Strategy: Avoid complex algebra, use answer choice testing
  • Calculate possible costs using given prices and conditions
  • Verify which answer choice satisfies all conditions

Key Takeaways

• Practice using PEMDAS for solving arithmetic-type questions
• Plug-in values is a powerful strategy for solving algebra and inequality problems
• Testing answer choices can simplify problem-solving for systems of equations
• Be cautious with negatives, apply logical thinking or concrete examples (like bank balance or temperature) to clarify understanding

Closing Remarks

• Emphasis on practical strategies for test-taking
• Importance of understanding concepts to avoid common traps
• Encouragement for further practice and review of course materials