Carroll Community College

Carroll uses Accuplacer, a College Board product, to test for English, reading and math skills. Preview Accuplacer's sample questions and practice SAT sample questions for Reading, English and Math.

Reading

The reading placement test is an un-timed reading comprehension test. The test may indicate a need for improvement of reading comprehension or vocabulary building skills. These skills may be gained in any one or a combination of the following courses:

• Academic Skills Enhancement Reading
• READ-091 (vocabulary and main-idea comprehension skills)
• READ-099 (SAT/college-level vocabulary and strategic reading skills).

Reading faculty members are working with My Foundations Lab, a new, online teaching tool. Taking the diagnostic test determines which pieces of the curriculum are needed. Completing the appropriate modules will partially or entirely replace the current reading curriculum.

All General Education courses require you to complete or to be exempt from READ-099. Most non-General Education courses require you to complete or be exempt from READ-091. Please see the college catalog or an advisor for details.

A history of reading is the best preparation for the placement test. Read books from the American Library Association's recommended reading lists to exercise or refresh your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

English

Your English course placement is based on a writing sample, sentence skill score, and reading ability. During the testing period, you have 45 minutes to write an essay based on a choice of prompts. Typing is permitted, but spell-check and grammar-check are not allowed. English professors review your essay and determine your course placement based on your grammar, punctuation, organization, and idea development.

Math

Placement into math courses is determined by the score received on the untimed computerized math test. The test is computer-adapted. It begins with algebra and becomes harder if you enter correct answers and easier if you enter wrong answers.

The college provides a calculator, scratch paper and pencil. If you prefer to use your personal calculator, call the Testing Center at 410-386-8450 for approval - calculators of Ti83-level and below are permitted.

The Math department faculty recommends the following prior to taking the math placement test.
1. If you need an extensive review, register for the math review course (MAT-098), study independently with the course's text,  Introductory Algebra, which is available in the Carroll bookstore for approximately $40, visit the Library's math research guide, and review  Purplemath, World of Math, Khan Academy or Coolmath.

2. Arrive refreshed and utilize the break offered between tests.

3. Take your time testing so your results are accurate.

Take Your Test(s)

Bring your driver's license or other official government-issued ID on your testing day; staff must verify your identity. Be sure to submit your Enrollment Application to the Admissions Office in A101 and obtain your seven digit student ID number prior to your placement testing session. Group testing takes place in A132. Your punctuality is required. The college provides all testing supplies including calculator, pencils and scratch paper.