Sheldon Axler's Algebra and Trig/Precalculus for proofs?

  • Context: Algebra 
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    Algebra Proofs
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the use of proofs in Sheldon Axler's algebra and precalculus texts, with participants seeking recommendations for high school-level books that teach proof-writing outside of geometry. The scope includes educational resources and personal experiences with proof-based learning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires whether Axler's texts incorporate proofs, expressing a desire for high school-level material focused on proof-writing.
  • Another participant finds that Axler's texts do not emphasize proofs and seeks further recommendations.
  • A different participant reflects on their own experience with proof-writing, mentioning that they did not encounter high school-level proofs and suggesting "Book of Proof" and a set theory book as beneficial resources.
  • One participant recommends "Fundamentals of Freshman Mathematics" by Allendoerfer/Oakley for its clear treatment of logic and proof strategies alongside pre-calculus topics.
  • Another recommendation includes Serge Lang's "Basic Mathematics," noted for its rigorous approach to pre-calculus topics and proof-writing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the availability and quality of high school-level proof resources, with no consensus on the best approach or specific texts. Some participants agree on the value of certain books, while others highlight the lack of focus on proofs in Axler's texts.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention personal experiences and preferences, indicating variability in the effectiveness of different texts for learning proofs. There is also an acknowledgment of the age of some recommended books, which may affect their availability and relevance.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in high school mathematics education, proof-writing skills, and recommendations for foundational mathematics texts may find this discussion relevant.

OceanSpring
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Can someone tell me if Axler's texts use proofs? I'm looking for a book that teaches proofs at the high school level. Something other than a geometry text.
 
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So, I found my own answer on the Axler texts. Other recommendations are welcome.

This course does not focus much on proofs
 
OceanSpring said:
I'm looking for a book that teaches proofs at the high school level. Something other than a geometry text.
I don't think there are 'high school level proof'. When I was in HS I trimmed through the Book of Proof. Then, I picked up a set theory book and worked through the various proofs (someone from PF suggested it) and it really was great. I can't say my proofwriting is perfect, but I know the basics well enough to work through Axler's LA and Abbott's Analysis in my first year of undergrad. Velleman also wrote a book on proofs but in my opinion, Book of Proof is straight up better.
 
If you would like to build a proof skill from the pre-calculus books, I recommend "Fundamentals of Freshman Mathematics" by Allendoerfer/Oakley. It starts with the basic logic and proof strategies, and treats the pre calculus topics (algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and basic probability) in a friendly, clear manner. The book is old, so you can find a used copy at very reasonable price.

Another book I recommend as a "high-school proof" is Serge Lang's Basic Mathematics, which treats the pre-calculus topics very rigorously. I personally like Allendoerfer/Oakley, but both books are great.
 

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