Amazon.com
Making algebra entertaining seems like a hopeless, if not downright insane, task, but that doesn't stop the Standard Deviants. A youthful cast of performers, who believe no joke, skit, or costume is too corny as long as it helps a student remember something important, throw themselves into "The Adventurous World of College Algebra" by beginning with a spoof of "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Inside a cave, two Indiana Jones wannabes search for, you guessed it, x. Despite the lighthearted approach, this is a serious algebra review course, compiled under the direction of academic advisers. The lessons begin by answering, "What is algebra?" and quickly move into quadratic roots and factors and a section on linear equations. A wacky sense of humor stays a constant, with spoofs of pop culture programs as well as flashy computer graphics appearing to illustrate essential concepts. At the end of each lesson a quiz appears (which the student can take or skip), and the DVD also contains the "Algebra Adventure," a multiple choice test taken by using the DVD player's remote control. A "Quick Review" segment provides a fast overview of the contents. This is an innovative approach to what has often been a daunting and dry subject.
--Robert J. McNamara
Additional Features
The Standard Deviants DVD contains the entire two-hour intensive algebra tutorial from the award-winning VHS version of the same name. In addition, this DVD features new footage not included in the VHS version, as well as an interactive component unparalleled in the DVD world. From a main menu, viewers can select which lesson they want to view. Retention is increased through four interactive drill-style quizzes on terminology, quadratic roots and factors, algebraic properties, and linear equations and slope. After mastering the quizzes, viewers can tackle
The Algebra Adventure, a comprehensive final exam. This multiple-choice test covers all the major concepts in the tutorial, and informs viewers of right and wrong responses. Viewers also have the option to select "Quick Review," which gives a complete review of the entire program in less than 10 minutes--perfect for last-minute studying. The "Helpful Info" section lists key notations and equations taught in the program. And finally, viewers can get a behind-the-scenes tour of Cerebellum's studios and preview other products, including the popular
No-Brainers series of lifestyle videos. All this with the improved digital image and sound quality of DVD.
