Linear equations, graphing, systems, polynomials, and factoring.
The arithmetic and number-system groundwork every algebra course assumes: fractions, order of operations, and the transition from arithmetic to symbolic algebra.
Rules for manipulating exponents, negative and zero exponents, and scientific notation. Most texts fold these rules into the polynomial chapter; DCM (and the P.O.W.E.R. sequence) introduce them first.
Solving linear equations, translating and solving applications, and solving and graphing linear and compound inequalities on the number line.
The coordinate plane, graphing lines, slope, and the several equivalent forms for the equation of a line.
Solving systems of linear equations by graphing, substitution, and elimination; applications; three-variable systems; and graphing linear inequalities in two variables.
Introduction to polynomials and the operations of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing them.
The standard factoring toolkit — GCF and grouping, trinomials, and special forms — plus solving quadratic equations by factoring and their applications. Includes the Intermediate-Algebra comprehensive factoring review.