Diagnostic Tool - First Day
Math 120 and Math 124

Diagnostic Instrument for First Day (.doc file)
Diagnostic Instrument for First Day (.pdf file)
The information below as a .doc file

Overview for Instructors
Ten item diagnostic tool that can be used on the first day of class in Math 120 and Math 124 with NO CALCULATORS. Test is self-graded by students to help them evaluate their preparation for the course. A score of 5 or fewer correct correlates to a 30% pass/70% fail rate in the course. A score of 6, 7, or 8 correct correlates with a 50% pass/50% fail rate in the course. Scores of 9 or 10 correlate to a 70% pass/30% fail rate in the course.

Instructions for Administration
Give each student a copy. Give 10 minutes (no more) to complete. Put answers on board or hand out answer sheet. The instrument is a SELF DIAGNOSTIC TOOL for each student to use to get a feel for how close the student is to being ready to START the course. The material is all prerequisite knowledge.

NOTE: You can delete the part at the top of the diagnostic tool (asking for name) if you do not intend to collect the information. Pease check with S. Hauk, hauk@unco.edu before otherwise altering the instrument.

Advice for students (say, write, or hand this out):

+ If complete 5 or fewer items correctly: encouraged to drop the course and take a preparatory math course like Intermediate Algebra (at UNC or Aims) before taking Math 120 or Math 124 next semester.

+ If complete 6, 7, or 8 correctly: Immediately go to the university Tutoring Center in the basement of the Michener Library to sign up for regular weekly tutoring [AND for Math 120 students only: participate in the weekly Supplemental Instruction tutoring sessions for Math 120]. Also suggest regular use of the Math Tutoring Center in Ross 1250 and regular visits with instructor during office hours for assistance.

+ If complete 9 or 10 correctly (i.e., have met the minimal proficiency for ENTRANCE into the course): Suggest getting Tutoring Center tutor and/or participating in some other form of tutoring, especially if talking through things helps the student. Strongly encourage regular use of the Math Tutoring Center in Ross 1250 and make sure to get into a good study group for the course.