Mathematics
Students develop conceptual understanding of algebra as a language to model real-world problems together with algebraic skills to solve those problems. Students develop competence in algebra skills related to solving equations and graphing in the Cartesian plane. They study elementary functions and their graphs (including polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions). They develop their analytic and problem-solving abilities while working to formulate and solve problems, applying skills to solve standard and novel mathematical problems.
Students learn to use the right triangle and unit circle definitions of trigonometric functions, together with their graphs, to reason about the behavior of the functions and solve applied problems. They develop their analytic and problem-solving abilities using trigonometric functions to model realistic periodic phenomena.
The QL 122 CPL assessment includes concepts from rational number operations and algebra, with questions including primarily word problem applications and a few calculations.
Topics covered on the assessment include:
- solving word problem applications using proportions, percents, linear equations, and inequalities in one and two variables
- performing calculations: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of decimals, fractions, and positive and negative numbers
- using order of operations including square roots and exponents
- 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
- carefully reading an entire problem and isolating what information is provided and what you need to solve for
- visualizing the problem by drawing a picture or diagram
- writing an equation or expression to model the situation described in the problem
- checking to see if your answer is reasonable within the context of the given information
- checking for calculation errors
Practice Assessment
Below is a link to a sample assessment. The sample is designed to reflect the length and level of expectation of the CPL assessment. Specific question types will vary on the actual CPL assessment.
QL 122 CPL Practice Assessment
Solutions for QL 122 CPL Practice Assessment
Additional Information
You may use a calculator that is not attached to your cell phone on the assessment but are encouraged to show all your work to illustrate the process used. You also are allowed to use a 4 x 6 notecard during the assessment. Use the practice assessment to help you decide what to include on the notecard.
The Assessment Center will contact students who are eligible to complete the QL 156 CPL assessment. The assessment consists of three sections: representing data, predicting data, and measurement concepts. Each part consists of word problem applications.
Representing Data
- Using descriptive statistics (mean, median, mode) to represent a set of data
- Using graphs (bar graph, line graph, circle graph, histogram, frequency polygon) to represent a set of data
Predicting Data
- Reading and interpreting the normal curve to make predictions
- Using definition of probability and odds to make predictions
- Using compound probability to make predictions
- Using counting concepts (counting principal, permutation, combination) to make predictions
Measurement Concepts
- Converting measures within and between the American and Metric measurement systems (approximate conversion of common units of length, volume, mass and temperature)
- Using Pythagorean Theorem to determine unknown lengths
- Determining geometric quantities of perimeter, area, surface area and volume (2D and 3D figures based on rectangles, triangles and circles)
- Connecting concepts of volume, capacity and mass
Sample QL 156 CPL Assessment
Below is a link to a sample assessment. The sample is designed to reflect the length and level of expectation of the assessment. Geometric shapes, measurement units, and data presentations will vary on the actual assessment.
Additional Information
- You may use a calculator that is not attached to your cell phone on the assessment but are encouraged to show all your work to illustrate the process used.
- You are allowed to use a 4 x 6 notecard during the assessment. Use the practice assessment to help you decide what to include on the notecard.
These assessments are timed. You will have three hours to completed the assessment. As a guideline, most students spend about two hours for the assessments. You can schedule your appointment by contacting the Assessment Center at 414-382-6020.
Assessment Center
Read Center (RC) 114
Phone: 414-382-6020
Email: assessmentcenter@alverno.edu
