Placement Testing
(ASSET/COMPASS)

What is ASSET?       What is COMPASS?       Useful Links

What is ASSET?

The ASSET program is a series of short placement tests developed by American College Testing (ACT) that lets you and Isothermal work together to help you succeed in your educational program. ASSET is designed as a course placement program that indicates areas where you are strong and areas in which you may need help. This gives you the opportunity to prepare more effectively for required courses. 

Who must take ASSET?

• Degree and diploma applicants

• BLET applicants, either prior to enrollment or during the first enrolled semester

• Special Credit students taking courses that require ASSET prerequisites

• Dual Enrollment or Huskins Bill students planning to enroll in English, math, or courses that require ASSET prerequisites

• Students without a high school diploma who have to prove "ability to benefit"

To understand more about ASSET waivers, please click here.

How does ASSET work?

ASSET has three tests of basic skills (writing, reading, and numerical skills), plus a more advanced test in algebra. ASSET is part of a One-Stop program that includes testing, orientation, advising, and registration for classes.  Students can schedule a One-Stop session once an Isothermal application is on file with the Admissions Office.  One-Stop sessions will last approximately four hours. 
 

What kinds of questions are on the test?

ASSET uses a multiple-choice format. You are given 25 minutes to take each test. The following is a brief description of each test. 

Writing Skills - A 36-item test that measures your understanding of appropriate usage in grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, writing strategy, and writing style. 

Reading Skills - A 24-item test that measures your ability to find specific information in the text and to make logical inferences that extend beyond the text information. 

Numerical Skills - A 32-item test designed to assess your knowledge and skills in basic math operations using whole numbers, decimals, and fractions and pre-algebra operations using prime numbers, absolute values, scientific notation, and square root. 

Elementary Algebra - This test measures skills often taught in a first year high school algebra class. 

Intermediate Algebra - This test measures skills often taught in a second year high school algebra class. 

College Algebra - This test measures skills often taught in a first year college algebra class.  Calculators are allowed during the algebra sections of ASSET and are provided by the College.


*An ASSET placement testing workbook with sample test questions is available in the Career Center, Building 10, or you may download a version in PDF format (Adobe Reader required) from the ACT web site **.  If you do not have Adobe Reader, you may download it from the Adobe site.  Calculators are allowed during the algebra sections of ASSET and are provided by the College. 

Tips for Specific ASSET Tests

Writing Skills 

1.Determine the intended meaning of each paragraph before trying to answer items in that paragraph. 
2.Substitute each alternative into the appropriate underlined portion for each item and select the one that fits best with the meaning of the paragraph. 

Reading Skills 

1.Read the entire passage carefully before trying to answer any items. 
2.Reread appropriate sections of the passage as needed to answer specific items. 
3.Read a few sentences before and after the appropriate sections of a passage to be sure that you understand the context. 

Numerical Skills /Advanced Mathematics 

1.Read each item stem carefully and examine all supporting information (e.g. tables and graphics) to be sure you understand each question. 
2.Solve each problem before you look at the alternatives. 
3.Find your solution among the listed alternatives. 
4.If your answer is not among the listed alternatives, check your work. 
5.Use the scratch paper provided to do your calculations (sorry, no calculators). 
6.For some items, "Not given" may be the correct alternative. 

Test Taking Tips

1.Relax! The ASSET tests are designed to help you succeed in school. Your scores help you and Isothermal determine which courses are most appropriate for your current level of knowledge and skills. 
2.You will be able to concentrate better on the test if you get plenty of rest and eat properly prior to the test. You should also arrive at least 10 minutes early so you can find the testing area, bathrooms, etc., and to ensure that you have time to find satisfactory seating and gather your thoughts before the test begins. 
3.Be sure you understand the directions for each test before that test session begins. Ask questions if you need to. 
4.Pace yourself. You have 25 minutes to answer all questions. Note the time when you start the test and check the time periodically to keep yourself on schedule. 
5.Read each question carefully until you understand what the question is asking. 
6.Be sure to answer every item. You are not penalized for guessing. 
7.If time is available, go back and check your work after you have answered all the items. 
8.Be sure you mark the space that corresponds to the answer you have selected for each item. 
9.If you have a problem or question during the test, raise your hand and the test administrator or proctor will help you.

What is COMPASS?

COMPASS, a computerized placement testing program, is available for students with documented disabilities and students wanting to retest after taking ASSET.  Students should contact the Career Center, ext. 266 for more information.

You may find sample COMPASS questions by going to www.act.org/compass/index.html and selecting "Sample Questions."  Calculators are allowed during the algebra sections of COMPASS and are provided by the College.

Some documents on our web site are in .PDF format and require Adobe Reader for viewing. Download Adobe Reader  here.

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