Math Assessment Test

A placement score is required to enroll in math and/or English classes at Liberty. This score is calculated based on SAT/ACT, unweighted high school GPA, and the Math and English Assessment tests. It is recommended that new students take the Math and English Assessment tests before arriving on campus. The purpose of the Math Assessment test is to determine your knowledge of arithmetic and algebra at the present time; the English Assessment tests your knowledge of basic writing skills.

It is very important that you do your own work and give your best effort on this test so that you will be placed in courses where you will be successful. Attempting a course that is above your skill level most likely will result in poor grades or withdrawal from the course. Taking a course below your skill level may lead to boredom and inattention and consequently a poor grade.

Preparation

It is recommended that you review before taking the test. Topics to review for the Math Assessment include:

• Operations with integers, fractions, decimals, percents, and absolute values
• Evaluating algebraic expressions
• Adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing polynomials
• Exponents
• Factoring
• Solving linear, absolute value, and quadratic equations and inequalities
• Graphing lines
• Solving systems of linear equations
• Adding and multiplying complex numbers

Sample test questions and solutions

To help you prepare for the math assessment test:

• Sample Test Questions Part 1
• Sample Test Solutions Part 1
• Sample Test Questions Part 2
• Sample Test Solutions Part 2

Online Resources

To help you review include algebra textbooks and websites such as:

• www.purplemath.com
• www.algebrahelp.com
• www.sci.wsu.edu/math/HS/directory.html

The English Assessment focuses on these broad topics. Make sure you are familiar with them before you begin the test:

• Modes of Writing: Narrative, Descriptive, Illustration, Comparison, Classification, Definition, and Argument
• Content: identifying author’s credibility, author’s audience, methods of support, and relevant details.
• Organization: identifying topic sentences, supporting details, transition sentences, and effective concluding sentences.
• Revision: selecting the best revision of sample sentences in the context of a paragraph/essay.
• Diction: selecting the best word to use in the context of a sentence.
• Grammar: evaluating sentences for appropriate use of grammar and mechanics.
• Style: identifying the author’s tone, theme, point of view, clichés, overuse of phrases.
• Reading Comprehension: reading a selection and identifying key elements of plot or theme.

Taking the tests

It is recommended that you have no distractions during the tests.

• Do not have the television on
• Do not talk with people
• Do not answer the phone

The following behaviors are inappropriate:

• Receiving assistance of any kind from anyone or any source
• Using a calculator, book, notes, or other people
• Going to any other website during the test

You may use paper and pencils to work out the problems.

Location of test

• Go to liberty.edu/blackboard.
• Enter your username and password.
• Click on "View Courses"
• Click on "Assessment-Math" or “Assessment-English”
• Click on the test and follow the directions

Math course assignments

The test is online and available in Blackboard. The test has two parts.

• Part I has 30 multiple choice problems.
• Part II is 20 multiple choice problems.

Depending on your score on Part I, you may or may not be asked to complete Part II.

Accommodations for learning disabilities & international students

A student with learning disabilities or any international student who has never taken a test on the computer may take the test using paper and pencil in Testing Services (RH 117). Please make arrangements with Ms. Michell Brandon in the testing center - (434) 582-2408.

Contact – for additional questions

If you are a residential student and have concerns or questions about the Math Assessment Test, contact Dr. Kathy Spradlin, Coordinator of Developmental Math, at kspradlin@liberty.edu or in DeMoss Hall 2241. For concerns or questions about the English Assessment Test, contact Prof. Carolyn Towles, Chair of General Education English, at ctowles@liberty.edu or in DeMoss 4032.

If you are an online student, contact a Math/English Assessment representative at luoassessments@liberty.edu.

If you are permitted to register for MATH 115, 116, 117, 121, or 201, but are interested in taking another course, contact the chair of the Math Department, Professor Robert Young, at rbyoung@liberty.edu or in DH 4056.