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The CAAP examination is a mid-level assessment taken by 23,000
sophomore/junior students nationwide. The math portion tests knowledge
in algebra, trigonometry, and calculus and is scaled from 40 to
80. The national average in recent years has been 56.3, while a
score of 56 represents the 53rd percentile.
In each of the last two cycles, we have tested 180 graduating/transferring
students. This is about 60% of the potential number we could test.
After deleting math scores for students who did not take College
Algebra, the average score in 2001 was 56.6; in 2002 it was 56.4.
Both numbers are above the national average. In 2001, 68% scored
a 56 or better; in 2002, the number was 58%.
Compare these numbers with the average ACT math scores for entering
students: 17.2 at Eastern, 18.6 nationally (two-year), 21.2 nationally
(all colleges). (2000-2001 entering students)
Consider these other indicators of success:
A 'pass rate' in Basic Algebra of 65 to 85%,
A 'pass rate' in Intermediate Algebra of 75 to 90% and
A 'pass rate' ('C' or better) in College Algebra for students completing
Intermediate of greater than 90%. (90% of these grades were 'A'
or 'B')
In addition, retention decreased and graduation rates increased,
resulting in new money for the institution from the State Board
of Regents.
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The college
offers three developmental mathematics courses:
 Basic
Algebra -Math 0113
- Review of fractions, decimals, percent
- Real number system
- Equations, inequalities, applications
- Graphs in two variables
- Exponents and polynomials
Intermediate Algebra -Math 0123
- Factoring and applications
- Rational expressions and applications
- Systems of equations and inequalities
- Roots and Radicals
- Quadratic equations
- Rational exponents
- Complex numbers
- not in text
Basic and Intermediate Algebra - Math 0125
- A combination of 1 and 2 above, usually beginning with equations.
All use the same text: Introductory Algebra.
Completion of 1 qualifies a student for 2.
Successful completion of 2 or 3 qualifies a student for College
Algebra.
Students are placed by ACT or COMPASS math test scores, along with
a review of high school work, age, and career plans.
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