Quantitative Literacy Assessment
- Admissions
- Undergraduate Admissions
- Reading Assessment
- Writing Assessment
- Quantitative Literacy Assessment
The quantitative literacy assessment consists of two parts, rational number operations and algebra, with each part including primarily word problem applications and a few calculations. You may use a calculator on the assessment but are encouraged to show all your work to illustrate the process used. The topics covered in the two sections are
Rational Number Operations
- solving word problem applications using decimals, fractions, proportions, and percents
- performing calculations: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of decimals, fractions, and positive and negative numbers
- using order of operations including square roots and exponents
Algebra
- solving word problem applications using linear equations and inequalities in one variable
- evaluating expressions when the values of variables are given
- solving
- linear equations and inequalities in one variable
- literal equations (rearranging a formula for a different variable)
- systems of equations using two variables
Effective strategies include
- carefully read an entire problem and isolate what information is provided and what you need to solve for
- visualize the problem by drawing a picture or diagram
- write an equation or expression to model the situation described in the problem
- check to see if your answer is reasonable within the context of the given information
- check for calculation errors
The assessment is not timed. As a guideline, most students spend about an hour to an hour and one-half for the quantitative literacy assessment. Additional time is available if needed.
Sample Quantitative Literacy Assessment
Applying Mathematical Thinking - Sample Questions (pdf)
Applying Mathematical Thinking - Sample Solutions (pdf)
Applying Algebraic Thinking - Sample Questions (pdf)
Applying Algebraic Thinking - Sample Solutions (pdf)
