Math Skills Proficiency Test- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
for all BUS100 Students 2013
1. Why do I need to take a Math Skills Proficiency Test?
The Math Skill Proficiency Test serves two purposes.
Firstly, it is an assessment tool for students to gauge if their current mathematics
skills are strong enough to handle the demands in their TRSM curriculum. To make
this test a true reflection of your mathematical strengths, I strongly encourage all
students to go through every resource materials, diagnostic and practice tests
posted on the blackboard starting August 15.
Secondly, the result of this test will help TRSM determine what math support will be
needed to put in place for student successes in the program.
2. Where can I find preparation materials for the Math Skills Proficiency Test?
Students will have access to a dedicated Blackboard site named TRS099 as of
August 15. Go to https://my.ryerson.ca/ and access the TRS099 blackboard using
your email address. This site contains all required information and practice
materials, including several diagnostic and practice tests that are similar in format
to the math skills proficiency test. Further study tips are available there. Students
should begin by reading the material in the Start Here document.
3. What topics will be covered on the Math Skills Proficiency Test?
Topics are discussed in great detail on the TRS099 Blackboard site.
Unit Topic
1
Algebra: Solving Linear Equations, Problem Solving using Linear Equations
2
Ratios, Applications
3
Percents, Applications
4
Graphing Linear Functions, Applications, Solving Systems of Equations,
Related Problems
5
Financial Math
Simple Interest, Compound Interest Applications
6
Introduction to Probability with Applications
SAF students should check the special SAF link for further topics they will also
need to know for their special test in week 2.
4. When will I write the Math Proficiency Test? How long is the test?
All TRSM students will write the test and have a maximum of 105 minutes for
completing the test.
For students in BUS 100, the test is scheduled during your breakout group session
during week 3 of the course. This year, this takes place between September 17 -23.
5. What is the minimum requirement for passing the Math Skills Proficiency Test?
The minimum standard for completing this requirement is 65%. Students who do
not attain the minimum standard on the first try will be required to attend two
tutorials (3 hours per tutorial) before attempting the test between Nov 6 -9.
6. If I have any problems accessing the preparation materials or have any other
questions, who can I contact?
There will be a discussion board available on the Blackboard site. Students who are
having trouble gaining access to the Blackboard site after August 15th or have
immediate questions may e-mail Jack Koenka at jack.koenka@ryerson.ca
7. How many tries do I get to pass the test?
Students get two tries to pass the test. For those students who do NOT achieve 65%
on the first try, they will attend two mandatory tutorials (A and B) prior to writing
the test 2 on Nov 6-9 . If a student does not succeed on the second try, he/she will
receive an INC=Incomplete in the course. In this case, the student would need to
attend a math skills workshop (6 hours) and write the test one (last) time in the
first or second week in Jan.2014 to clear their INC.
8. Where can I get some extra help?
If you need some help prior to the test, come to one of the scheduled extra help
session. The times and locations will be posted ASAP but by Sept. 3rd for sure
9. How can I use all the resources on TRS 099 most efficiently and effectively?
How you use the resources on TRS 099 depends on your learning style.
Learning Style: Visual Learner
1) Start with the diagnostic test by clicking on the diagnostic test folder. You have a
choice to take the on-line version or the paper version. This will give you a very
good indication which area of mathematics you need to focus on.
2) Go to the Extra Preparation Folder, under unit notes, there are YouTube videos
teaching you different areas of mathematics such as Algebra, Percent, Ratios, Linear
Functions, Financial Math and Probability. You will also find practice problems in
the Extra preparation Folder.
3) Proceed to the Practice Tests Folder upon completion of step 2 above and work
on practice tests.
4) If you have any questions, look in the Discussion Board. Your question might
have been asked and answered from before. If not, you can post your question in
the Discussion Board and I will answer them on a daily basis. Please be advised that
you need to copy and paste the original question every time you ask or reply to a
question. Please refrain from personal commentaries. Students who misused the
discussion board will have their question and/or reply deleted. As well, they will be
barred from future use of the discussion board.
Learner Style: Proficient in Reading Math Textbook
1) Start with the diagnostic test by clicking on the diagnostic test folder. You have a
choice to take the on line version or the paper version. This will give you a very
good indication which area of mathematics you need to focus on.
2) Go to the Extra Preparation Folder, start with Lecture Notes, and then proceed to
Practice Questions. If required, you can always refer to Unit Notes where YouTube
videos are housed to teach specific math concepts.
3) Proceed to the Practice Tests Folder upon completion of step 2 above and work
on practice tests.
4) If you have any questions, look in the Discussion Board.
Good Luck on the Math Proficiency Test!