Should I Take Math 5 or Math 15?
Short descriptions of Math 5 and Math 15 follow below. Course outlines can be found at the following URL:
Math 5: Contemporary Mathematics
- CSU transferrable.
- 3 units.
- Prerequisite: Math 120 (or the equivalent) with a "C" grade or better or the assessment recommendation for Math 5, 15, or 21.
A study of mathematical concepts that include inductive and deductive reasoning, mathematical modeling and analysis of linear and exponential functions, geometric symmetries, geometry of fractals, sequences and series, dynamics of population growth, statistics, mathematics of finance and management science, mathematics of methods of voting, fair division, and problem-solving techniques that include a variety of practical problems. This course is designed for liberal arts students.
Math 15: Elementary Statistics
- CSU and UC transferrable.
- 4 units.
- Prerequisite: Math 120 (or the equivalent) with a "C" grade or better or the assessment recommendation for Math 5 or 15.
An emphasis in the use of statistical methods as applied to descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. While discussing descriptive statistics, the students learn to read, understand, and present data in a well organized way by use of frequency distributions, graphs, percentiles, measures of central tendency, measures of variability, correlation, and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, the students learn to make generalizations about a population based on a sample using probability and its laws, and several parametric and non-parametric tests including t, chi-square, ANOVA, Wilcoxon Rank Sum, Kruskal-Wallis Test, Sign, and others. Computers will be used for statistical projects. Reading and writing skills at or above the English 150 level are strongly recommended. A several page written term project will be assigned.
Intermediate Algebra Diagnostic Test
The College now uses a computerized placement process called Accuplacer. For more details, see the following URL:
In the past, prior to the installation of the Accuplacer procedure for placement, the College and department of mathematics used a different procedure, which is outlined below. However, these pages can still be used to help prepare the student to take the Accuplacer placement exam. The self-correcting examination that follows and its accompanying rubric will give the student a sense of where they stand in relation to other students currently enrolled in mathematics courses at the College.
You will need to download the Free Acrobat Reader from Adobe to access the sample assessment examinations on this page.
The sample assessment tool entitled Intermediate Algebra Diagnostic Test is used to test whether or not you are ready to take Math 5, 15, or 21. There are 45 questions and you have 45 minutes to complete the exam. The test is self correcting and directions are provided. Once you complete the Intermediate Algebra Diagnostic Test, the following criteria are used to determine placement.
- If you score 28 correct or higher, you are eligible to enroll in Math 5 or 15.
- If your score is in the range 20-27, then you should see a counselor for assistance in the appropriate course placement.
- If your score is in the range 16-19, and you passed an Algebra I course in high school, then you should take Math 120. or 106.
- If your score is in the range 0-15, then you should retest at a lower level.
Note: The rubric scores given above are connected to a previous placement procedure that is no longer in use at the College. New students who wish to take a mathematics class must first contact the Academic Support Center (476-4106) to make an appointment to take the Accuplacer placement exam.