For introductory college math course at the college algebra level for non-calculus bound students.

Designed for students who are not headed for calculus-based curricula — but who still need a solid quantitative foundation for subsequent studies and for life as educated citizens — this introduction to mathematical modeling offers an alternative approach to college algebra. The authors use elementary functions to describe and explore real-world data and phenomena. Students learn how to construct useful mathematical models, to analyze them critically, and to communicate quantitative concepts effectively. The Second Edition is even more student-friendly, with more concrete language and examples throughout.