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What is the math placement assessment through ALEKS?
The Math Placement assessment through ALEKS covers a broad spectrum of pre-calculus material. The ALEKS system is fully automated and the ALEKS assessment is adaptive. The first questions asked will be drawn from across the pre-calculus curriculum, and may be too easy or too hard. As the assessment proceeds, your answers will be used to give the system an idea of your abilities, and it will gradually focus the questioning in an appropriate way. By the end of the assessment you should find the questions generally challenging but reasonable for your knowledge level.
The length of the assessment runs from 20 to 35 questions. The number of questions will vary due to the adaptive mechanism just described. It is likely that you will be asked questions on material you have not yet learned. On such questions it is appropriate to answer, "I don't know." On any question that you have familiarity with, however, it is important to do your best. "I don't know" is interpreted by ALEKS to mean that you do not know the topic, and this will be reflected in the assessment results. If you do not do your best on the assessment, ALEKS will underestimate your abilities and this will affect your placement recommendation.
Who is required to take the math assessment through ALEKS?
All new incoming and transfer students are required to take the math placement assessment through ALEKS.
How do I access the math placement assessment through ALEKS?
Through your AccessPlus account. Use your nine (9) digit University ID number to enter AccessPlus. You can find your number in your Office of Admissions letter. For instructions on finding ALEKS on AccessPlus, click here.
Do I need to install any plug-ins prior to taking the Math Assessment?
Yes, there is an ALEKS plug-in. Once in ALEKS, the system will automatically install the plug-in, however, you do have to:
- authorize installation
- after it is installed, you will need to close your browser window and go back to the Iowa State website
- then go back into AccessPlus to take the ALEKS placement assessment.
For a description of ALEKS system and browser requirements, click here
If there is difficulty installing the plugin see:
www.aleks.com/faqs/technical#streaming_plugin
You can contact ALEKS by email through:
http://support.aleks.com/assess_placement
For ALEKS FAQ site see:
http://www.aleks.com/faqs/technical#ques_troubleshooting
A Customer Support number for ALEKS is (714) 619-7090.
Do I need to take the assessment if I have AP credit or transfer credit in calculus?
Yes. Even though your AP scores and transfer credits will be used to give you credit for the corresponding course, the results of the assessment will be used in your placement. If your score does not indicate mastery of prerequisite material, you will be strongly advised to retake a course for which you have credit to ensure that you are properly prepared for the following course.
How do I qualify for a course beyond Math 165?
To qualify for Mathematics 166 (Calculus II), you must:
- score at least 70% on the ALEKS assessment
- score at least 14 out of 20 on the special Calculus II placement assessment accesses through Blackboard.
To access Blackboard you will need your ISU NetID. If you do not already have a NetID then follow the directions below: To register for a NetID (Blackboard log-in) go to the following website: 1. Fill in the required information including your student ID number. Allow up to 24 hours for your NetID to be activated. |
For placement beyond Mathematics 166 you will need an ALEKS score of at least 75% and transfer or AP credit for Mathematics 166 or equivalent. Your advisor will work with you at orientation to find an appropriate course and may have you visit with a member of the Mathematics Department to better assess your background and abilities.