MA180, Precalculus, OutcomesAssessment RubricFa 2006

The assessment questions for MA180 address content specific, quantitative reasoning, use of technology, and writing objectives. There are three questions: 1. solving a trigonometric equation, 2. identifying graphs, and 3.reasoning from graphically presented data. Each item has a suggested score value as if it were part of a 200 point Final Examination in the course. Scoring suggestions as related to skills and concepts required for solution of each exercise are outlined as a scoring rubric. The test items are attached for reference.

  1. Ten (10) points: Students must solve a trigonometric equation both algebraically [part (a), five (5) points] and graphically [parts (b) and (c), five (5) points]. They must understand quadrant analysis of angles and work with radian mode. They must use appropriate trigonometric substitutions and equation-solving techniques and may use inverse trigonometric functions. They must interpret solutions across a given domain. They must be able to use a graphing calculator to accurately graph a trigonometric function and they must interpret the graph correctly, including scales along the horizontal and vertical axes. They must sketch the graph, label the horizontal and vertical scales, as well as locate the required solutions.

Assignment of points:(a) solve algebraicallyfive (5)

using substitution1

includingalgebra steps1

finding initial solutions1

generating all solutions1

answering in radians1

(b) solve graphicallytwo (2)

using TI to get accurate graph1

reading solutions from graph1
(c) sketch graphthree (3)

including proper horizontal and vertical scales2

listing solutions with required accuracy1

  1. Four (4) points: Students must interpret graphical representations of functions using the

correct terminology. (They must understand the use of technology to do this.)

Assignment of points: (a) – (d)write correct designation in blank [one (1) each] four (4)

  1. Ten (10) points. Students must be able to interpret data presented graphically. They must be able to work with course-specific terminology and reason from the given data, including determining the proper values of points on the graph. They must be able to write data-based conclusions in complete sentences.

Assignment of points: ten (10)

(a) interpret vertical scale 1

(b) interpret data point from horiz. data1

(c) interpret data point from vert. data1

(d) draw conclusions from given data1

write complete sentences3

(e) reason from given data1

(f) interpret technical data question1

(g) interpret end behavior of graph1