Who must take the UT Chemistry Assessment?

All students wishing to enroll in CH301 must earn the minimum score of 85% on the ALEKS Chemistry assessment by Tuesday September 3rd, 7 am or you will be dropped from CH301.

Students should purchase and complete the ALEKS Chemistry initial assessment at least six (6) weeks before the semester begins, to allow ample time to work toward the required score of 85%.

Why must I take the UT Chemistry Assessment?

The UT Chemistry Assessment is a more effective assessment tool than the SAT, AP, or CLEP tests.

In addition, the UT Chemistry Assessment allows students to enter CH301 with a strong knowledge base, regardless of how long it’s been since the student’s last chemistry course.

What chemistry topics are on the ALEKS Chemistry?

The assessment covers a variety of high school-level chemistry topics, each of which is considered prior knowledge by our instructors.

What is the ALEKS Chemistry access procedure?

To access ALEKS Chemistry, you will need:

• Your UTEID and password.
• A computer with a web browser and Internet connection. Supported browsers are:   
  
  • Windows: Explorer 7.0+, Firefox 10+, Chrome 4+
  • Macintosh OS 10.4+: Safari 4+, Firefox 10+

How do I get technical support for ALEKS?

For ALEKS customer support please phone or email:
Phone: (714) 245-7191 ext. 201
Email: http://support.aleks.com

What if I already have credit for chemistry through AP, IB, or CLEP exams?

All incoming students who enroll or wish to enroll in CH301 must take the UT Chemistry Assessment.

Is ALEKS Chemistry a timed test?

ALEKS gives you the time you need in order to complete the assessment (20-35 questions). However, it does take into account the time it takes for you to answer each question when determining (the ease or difficulty of) your next question and your score. The assesment must be completed in one sitting. You should allow 1.5-2 hours for the initial assessment.

How does ALEKS Chemistry work?

ALEKS Chemistry has two primary “modes”: Assessment Mode and Learning Mode.

• Upon first signing in, you engage Assessment mode. This is the initial exam that determines how much you already know and remember about chemistry. The better you do, the harder it gets (and the higher your end score).
• The Learning Mode is activated after you take the initial assessment. It includes practice problems and tutorials. In learning mode you will see a “pie” with clickable links. When you select a topic to study, you will be given a practice problem. Answering problems correctly raises your ALEKS Chemistry score. Answering a problem incorrectly reveals the answer with a step-by-step solution to the problem and may temporarily lower your score until you get a similar question correct. Working in Learning Mode is another way to earn the 85% required for enrollment in CH301.

Where does my score appear?

• Your score is automatically added to your UT student profile which is accessible by your advisor.
• Your score will be verified by the Chemistry department before the semester begins.
• Your score can be viewed by reentering ALEKS Chemistry using the same access link for which you took the assessment. Click the assessment button and your score will appear.

How is my score used?

A final score of 85% or higher in ALEKS Chemistry allows you to enroll in or remain enrolled in CH301. The “final score” includes assessments plus learning mode within ALEKS Chemistry.

What are the minimum required ALEKS Chemistry scores for course placement?

Every UT student enrolling in CH301 needs a 85% or higher in ALEKS Chemistry.

What if I do not obtain the required minimum score?

• If the deadline has not yet passed:
  • Keep going!
  • ALEKS Chemistry allows you to increase your score by working through its tutorials and practice problems. Each correctly answered question increases your final score, which is what we use to determine eligibility.
  • Use the Quest learning modules to expand on what you are learning in ALEKS and to better prepare for CH301.
• If the deadline has passed:
  • A score less than 85% prohibits you from taking CH301 this semester.

What is the deadline?

The ALEKS Chemistry initial assessment should be purchased and completed at least five (5) weeks before the semester begins, to allow ample time to work toward the required score. The minimum required score of 85% must be met by Tuesday, September 3rd, 7 AM or else you will be dropped from CH301.

How long is my ALEKS Chemistry score valid?

The score is valid for one semester. After that, the score expires and ALEKS Chemistry must be re-purchased and the assessment retaken.

Step 1: Warm Up