[MATHEDCC] student preparation

Laura Bracken (bracken@LCSC.EDU)
Thu, 19 Nov 1998 11:28:37 -0800

I see many students in my developmental classes who completed either
Algebra II or two years of Applied Mathematics to meet their graduation
requirement. They are placed in my classes because of an ACT score below
18. How did they ever pass high school math? Well, some of them copied most
of the homework and the homework along with attendance accounted for about
a third of the grade. The exams were written with a large amount of the
material being the most fundamental concepts of the unit -- they could get
a D without applying any of the concepts or doing any of the hard problems,
particularly if partial credit was given. Almost always, extra credit was
available to boost a grade. In short, students did not have to demonstrate
mastery. They also tend to blow off the ACT, not realizing that it is a
placement device as well as an entrance exam. (We essentially have open
admission so that the ACT determines placement and probationary enrollment.)

In many cases, the high school teachers of these students are under
enormous pressure to pass the students, no matter what. Failing them and
preventing their graduation just isn't an option. "Good" kids who
regularly attend school and try can't be failed.

My state has no exit assessments for high school graduation. I'd be
interested in hearing about the level of preparation of students for
college mathematics in states where there is a math exit exam.

--Laura

____________________________________________________________________
Laura Bracken bracken@lcsc.edu

Division of Natural Science and Mathematics Office: 208-799-2484
Lewis-Clark State College Fax: 208-799-2064
500 8th Avenue
Lewiston, ID 83501
_____________________________________________________________________

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