Academic Achievement Center (AAC)

This is an archived copy of the 2021-22 Catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.jccc.edu/.

Courses

AAC 082   Basic Spelling (3 Hours)

This self-instructional course is for students who wish to improve their spelling ability but who have not been successful in the traditional spelling program. This course provides a highly structured approach to spelling improvement through mastery of morphographs (units of meaning) and guidelines for combining morphographs. A limited number of spelling rules are taught in the course. This course is ideal for students for whom English is a second language. An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with students to establish specific goals, administer tests, and provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the students' program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 16 hrs./semester

AAC 086   Vocabulary Development (1 Hour)

This self-instructional course is designed for college students who wish to expand both their receptive and expressive vocabulary levels. College students are expected to be able to recognize and use vocabularies specific to specialized and changing contents, i.e., data processing, sociology and business. A vocabulary placement test will be administered to determine a starting level. Instructional material provided by the AAC includes Latin and Greek derivatives, specialized vocabulary, stated and implied meanings as well as the process of acquisition (context clues, etymology and derivatives). An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with the student to establish specific instructional goals, administer tests and provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester

AAC 090   Individualized Study (1 Hour)

This self-instructional course is designed for students who want to improve in any of the following AAC areas: study skills, spelling, vocabulary, basic math or algebra preparation. Once the area of study has been determined, a pretest will be administered by the instructor and a program of study will be developed using materials provided by the AAC. An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with students to establish specific goals, administer tests, and to provide individualized instruction needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester

AAC 092   Basic Math Review (1 Hour)

This self-instructional course is designed for students who need to learn or review basic mathematical concepts. Based on the results of a pretest administered during the student's initial visit to the Center, an individualized program is established. While one student may begin the program with multiplication facts, another may begin with solving proportions or equations. Instructional material is provided by the AAC. An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with the student to establish specific instructional goals, administer tests and to provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester

AAC 093   Algebra Preparation (1 Hour)

This self-instructional course is designed for students who possess basic math skills and want to learn basic concepts in algebra. Based on the results of a pretest administered during the student's initial visit to the center, an individualized program is established. Using instructional material provided by the AAC, students will master a variety of concepts, including the terminology of mathematics and algebra, simplifying open expressions, solving algebraic equations and other concepts. An Academic Achievement Center instructor will be available to work with the student to establish specific instructional goals, administer tests and provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester

AAC 099   Study Skills (1 Hour)

This course is designed to improve students' ability to study efficiently. Students will master basic cognitive learning theory, time management, textbook reading, note taking from textbook and from lecture, and test taking. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 16 hrs./semester.

AAC 082

  • Title: Basic Spelling
  • Number: AAC 082
  • Effective Term: 2021-22
  • Credit Hours: 3
  • Contact Hours: 3
  • Lecture Hours: 3

Description:

This self-instructional course is for students who wish to improve their spelling ability but who have not been successful in the traditional spelling program. This course provides a highly structured approach to spelling improvement through mastery of morphographs (units of meaning) and guidelines for combining morphographs. A limited number of spelling rules are taught in the course. This course is ideal for students for whom English is a second language. An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with students to establish specific goals, administer tests, and provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the students' program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 16 hrs./semester.

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu/

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives

  1. Use morphographs as a spelling aid.

  2. Distinguish vowels from consonants.

  3. Combine morphographs.

  4. Apply spelling generalizations.

  5. Spell plural forms.

  6. Spell contractions.

  7. Identify spelling variations.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Determine Baseline Competency by Taking a Pre-Test

II. Use Morphographs as a Spelling Aid

A. Identify morphographs as a unit of meaning.

B. Apply knowledge of morphographs as a key to spelling.

C. Identify word/non-word morphographs.

D. Compare and contrast morphographs and syllables.

III. Distinguish Vowels From Consonants

IV. Combine Morphographs to Form Multi-Morphographic Words

V. Apply Spelling Generalizations

A. State and apply the final-e rule.

B. State and apply the doubling rule.

C. State and apply the rule concerning "y" and "w" as vowels.

D. State and apply the y-to-i rule.

E. State and apply the "en" variation rule.

F. State and apply the "al" variation rule.

G. State and apply the "or" ending rule.

VI. Use Spelling Guidelines to Correctly Spell Plurals (example: thieves,
churches)

VII. Use Spelling Guidelines to Correctly Spell Contractions

VIII. Identify Spelling Variations

IX. Determine Completion Competency by Taking Post-Test

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

70%    Tests (chapter, midterm, final)
30%    Workbook

Total: 100%

Grade Criteria:

90 - 100% = A
80 - 89% = B
70 - 79% = C
60 - 69% = D
0 - 59% = F

Caveats:

  1. It is the student's responsibility to read the course syllabus, A.A.C. information sheet, program sheet and any other material provided to the student by the A.A.C. staff in which procedures, policies, grading guidelines, etc. are explained.

  2. Corrected workbook pages will be collected and will not be returned to the student.

  3. Instructional material is presented through video taped lessons produced by JCCC. These tapes are available for use in the Academic Achievement Center.

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you are a student with a disability and if you are in need of accommodations or services, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services and make a formal request. To schedule an appointment with an Access Advisor or for additional information, you may send an email or call Access Services at (913)469-3521. Access Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center (SC 202).

AAC 086

  • Title: Vocabulary Development
  • Number: AAC 086
  • Effective Term: 2021-22
  • Credit Hours: 1
  • Contact Hours: 1
  • Lecture Hours: 1

Description:

This self-instructional course is designed for college students who wish to expand both their receptive and expressive vocabulary levels. College students are expected to be able to recognize and use vocabularies specific to specialized and changing contents, i.e., data processing, sociology and business. A vocabulary placement test will be administered to determine a starting level. Instructional material provided by the AAC includes Latin and Greek derivatives, specialized vocabulary, stated and implied meanings as well as the process of acquisition (context clues, etymology and derivatives). An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with the student to establish specific instructional goals, administer tests and provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester.

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu/

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives

Individual student goals will be based on the student's pretest; however, those goals will be selected from the course objectives listed below.

  1. Demonstrate an advanced level of vocabulary.

  2. Utilize context clues to derive meaning.

  3. Recognize the meanings of Latin and Greek derivatives and use those derivatives to determine meaning.

  4. Demonstrate proficiency using all parts of a standard collegiate dictionary.

  5. Demonstrate the ability to differentiate between stated and implied meanings of words.

  6. Recognize and correctly use idioms and foreign phrases.

  7. Integrate newly acquired vocabulary words into student's own writings.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Determine Baseline Vocabulary Level by Taking a Pretest

II. Apply Context Clues to Derive Meaning

A. Identify clues stated with punctuation.

B. Identify clues without punctuation.

C. Identify clues implied or stated through contrast.

D. Identify clues that are implied only.

E. Apply context clues in study materials as well as materials of self-selection.

III. Demonstrate Knowledge of Latin and Greek Derivatives

A. Define Latin and Greek derivatives.

B. Apply knowledge of Latin and Greek derivatives to determine meaning of new words.

IV. Demonstrate Proficiency in the Use of a Standard Collegiate Dictionary

A. Locate and explain definition sequences.

B. Locate and explain etymologies.

C. Locate and explain notations for parts of speech.

D. Locate and explain homographs.

E. Locate and explain synonyms.

F. Locate and define foreign expressions.

G. Locate and define idioms.

H. Locate and explain abbreviations.

I. Locate information in appendices.

V. Differentiate Between Stated and Implied Meanings

A. Explain connotation and give examples.

B. Explain denotation and give examples.

VI. Recognize and Correctly Use Idioms

VII. Recognize and Correctly Use Foreign Expressions

VIII. Integrate Newly Acquired Vocabulary Into Student's Own Writing Vocabulary

A. Compose original sentences using new vocabulary correctly.

B. Complete notebooks of all assignments, handouts, and work.

IX. Determine Completion Vocabulary Level By Taking Post-Test

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

Chapter tests, graded assignments, comparison of baseline and completion vocabulary scores, and completion of course notebook. During the first five hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, each student will be asked to select one of the following grading systems.

Regardless of the grading system chosen, each student must complete a required number of chapter tests, attaining a score of 70% or greater on each chapter. (Students are expected to complete graded tests and assignments throughout the mandatory time requirements of the specified grading system.) Chapter tests constitute 80% of the course grade, and the notebook makes up 20% of the course grade.  Students should consult with an instructor before selecting the pass/fail or the standard grading system.

Pass/Fail:

In order to receive a grade of "P" (pass), the student must complete the minimum required chapter tests at 70%, must complete at least 20 hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center prior to taking post-test, must submit a course notebook for evaluation, and must show improvement based on the pretest and the post-test scores. Failure to complete any of the above will result in the "F" grade.

Standard Letter Grade System:

20-30+ hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, required number of chapter tests at 70%, course notebook, improvement based on the pretest and post-test scores.

Grade Criteria:

90 - 100% and 30+ hours = A
80 - 89% and 25+ hours = B
70 - 79% and 20+ hours = C
60 - 69% and 20+ hours = D
Below 60% or < 20 hours = F

Caveats:

  1. It is the student's responsibility to read the course syllabus, A.A.C. information sheet, program sheet and any other material provided to the student by the A.A.C. staff in which procedures, policies, grading guidelines, etc., are explained.

  2. No more than four (4) hours per day will count toward the required hours.

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you are a student with a disability and if you are in need of accommodations or services, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services and make a formal request. To schedule an appointment with an Access Advisor or for additional information, you may send an email or call Access Services at (913)469-3521. Access Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center (SC 202).

AAC 090

  • Title: Individualized Study
  • Number: AAC 090
  • Effective Term: 2021-22
  • Credit Hours: 1
  • Contact Hours: 1
  • Lecture Hours: 1

Description:

This self-instructional course is designed for students who want to improve in any of the following AAC areas: study skills, spelling, vocabulary, basic math or algebra preparation. Once the area of study has been determined, a pretest will be administered by the instructor and a program of study will be developed using materials provided by the AAC. An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with students to establish specific goals, administer tests, and to provide individualized instruction needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester.

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu/

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives

Individual student objectives will be determined by the student’s pretest in each subject area selected. However, those goals are limited to the objectives listed on the course syllabus for each area selected.

  1. Improve study skills.

  2. Improve spelling.

  3. Improve vocabulary.

  4. Improve basic math skills.

  5. Improve algebra skills.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Study Skills (See content outline and competencies for AAC 099)

II. Basic Spelling (See content outline and competencies for AAC 082)

III. Vocabulary Development (See content outline and competencies for AAC 086)

III. Basic Math Review (See content outline and competencies for AAC 092)

IV. Algebra Preparation (See content outline and competencies for AAC 093)

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

Chapter tests, graded assignments and notebook completion. During the first five hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, each student will be asked to select one of the following grading systems.

Regardless of the grading system chosen, each student is required to complete a number of minimum chapter tests depending on the subject area selected (usually between four and nine tests), attaining a score of 70% or greater on each chapter. Chapter tests constitute 80% of the course grade, and the notebook makes up 20% of the course grade. Students should consult with an instructor before selecting the pass/fail or the standard grading system.

Pass/Fail:

In order to receive a grade of “P” (pass), the student must complete the minimum required chapter tests at 70%, must complete at least 20 hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center prior to taking topost-test, must submit a course notebook for evaluation, and must show improvement based on the pretest and the post-test scores. Failure to complete any of the above will result in the “F” grade.

Standard Letter Grade System:

20-30+ hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, required number of 4 chapter tests at 70%, course notebook, improvement based on the pretest and post-test scores.

Grade Criteria:

90 - 100% and 30+ hours = A
80 - 89% and 25+ hours = B
70 - 79% and 20+ hours = C
60 - 69% and 20+ hours = D
Below 60% or < 20 hours = F

Caveats:

  1. It is the student’s responsibility to read the course syllabus, AAC information sheet, program sheet and any other material provided to the student by the AAC staff in which procedures, policies, grading guidelines, etc., are explained.

  2. No more than four (4) hours per day will count toward the required hours.

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you are a student with a disability and if you are in need of accommodations or services, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services and make a formal request. To schedule an appointment with an Access Advisor or for additional information, you may send an email or call Access Services at (913)469-3521. Access Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center (SC 202).

AAC 092

  • Title: Basic Math Review
  • Number: AAC 092
  • Effective Term: 2021-22
  • Credit Hours: 1
  • Contact Hours: 1
  • Lecture Hours: 1

Description:

This self-instructional course is designed for students who need to learn or review basic mathematical concepts. Based on the results of a pretest administered during the student's initial visit to the Center, an individualized program is established. While one student may begin the program with multiplication facts, another may begin with solving proportions or equations. Instructional material is provided by the AAC. An Academic Achievement Center instructor is available to work with the student to establish specific instructional goals, administer tests and to provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester.

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu/

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives

Individual student goals will be based on the student's pretest; however, those goals will be selected from the course objectives listed
below.

  1. The student will demonstrate the ability to perform the computation of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers at 70% accuracy without use of the calculator.

  2. The student will demonstrate the ability to perform the computation of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions and mixed numbers at 70% accuracy without use of the calculator.

  3. The student will demonstrate the ability to perform the computation of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of decimal fractions at 70% accuracy without use of the calculator.

  4. The student will demonstrate the ability to perform the computation of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of percentages at 70% accuracy without use of the calculator.

  5. The student will demonstrate the ability to solve problems using ratios and proportions at 70% accuracy without use of the calculator.

  6. The student will demonstrate the ability to use signed numbers, scientific notation and metric conversions to solve problems at 70% accuracy.

  7. The student will demonstrate the ability to use basic geometric formulas at 70% accuracy.

  8. The student will demonstrate the ability to use descriptive statistics at 70% accuracy.

  9. The student will demonstrate the ability to select and apply the appropriate procedures to solve mathematical problems.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Determine Baseline Competency Level by Taking Pretest 

II. Demonstrate the Ability to Perform Computations Involving Whole Numbers

A. Add whole numbers.

B. Subtract whole numbers.

C. Multiply whole numbers.

D. Divide whole numbers.

E. Compute word problems involving whole numbers.

III. Demonstrate the Ability to Perform Computations Involving Fractions and Mixed Numbers

A. Identify factors for Least Common Multiples and Lowest Common Denominators.

B. Simplify fractions.

C. Change improper fractions to whole or mixed numbers.

D. Solve problems involving addition of fractions and mixed numbers.

E. Solve problems involving subtraction of fractions and mixed numbers.

F. Solve problems involving multiplication of fractions and mixed numbers.

G. Solve problems involving division of fractions and mixed numbers.

H. Solve word problems by correctly using the computations necessary.

IV. Demonstrate the Ability to Perform Computations Involving Decimals

A. Change decimals to fractions and fractions to decimals.

B. Evaluate decimals according to place value.

C. Round decimals to the nearest tenth, hundredth and thousandth.

D. Solve problems involving addition of decimals.

E. Solve problems involving subtraction of decimals.

F. Solve problems involving multiplication of decimals.

G. Solve problems involving division of decimals.

H. Approximate answers by rounding and solving.

I. Compute word problems involving decimals.

V. Demonstrate the Ability to Perform Computations Involving Percentages

A. Explain the meaning of percent.

B. Change percents to decimal fractions.

C. Change decimal fractions to percents.

D. Change fractions to percents.

E. Solve word problems involving percentages.

VI. Demonstrate the Ability to Solve Problems Using Ratio and Proportion

A. Explain the meaning of ratio.

B. Explain the meaning of proportion.

C. Solve problems involving equations and proportions.

D. Compute word problems involving ratio and proportion.

VII. Demonstrate the Ability to Use Signed Numbers, Scientific Notation and Metric Conversions

A. Add, subtract, multiply and divide using signed numbers.

B. Explain powers of ten.

C. Explain and apply the rules of order when computing.

D. Solve problems using multiplication and division of numbers written in scientific notation.

VIII. Demonstrate the Ability to Use Basic Geometric Formulas

A. Find area of geometric shapes.

B. Find perimeters of geometric shapes.

C. Compare American and metric units of measure.

D. Define and compute square roots.

E. Find the volume and capacity of given units.

F. Compute problems of weight, mass and time.

G. Compute problems of temperature.

IX. Use Descriptive Statistics

A. Define average, median and mode.

B. Compute averages, medians and modes.

C. Use graphic representations (tables, charts, pictographs, bar graphs, and/or circle graphs) to solve problems.

X. Demonstrate the Ability to Select and Apply the Appropriate Procedures to Solve Mathematical Problems 

XI. Determine Completion Competency by Completing Post-Test

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

Graded chapter tests and notebook completion. During the first five hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, each student will be asked to select one of the following grading systems.

Regardless of the grading system chosen, each student is required to complete a specific number of tests determined by the instructional material.  Chapter tests constitute 80% of the course grade, and the notebook makes up 20% of the course grade. Students should consult with an instructor before selecting the pass/fail or the standard grading system.

Pass/Fail:
In order to receive a grade of "P" (pass), the student must complete the minimum required chapter tests at 70%, must complete at least 20 hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center prior to taking to post-test, must submit a course notebook for evaluation, and must show
improvement based on the pretest and the post-test scores. Failure to complete any of the above will result in the "F" grade.

Standard Letter Grade System:

20-30+ hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, required number of chapter tests at 70%, course notebook, improvement based on the pretest and post-test scores.

Grade Criteria:

90 - 100% and 30+ hours = A
80 - 89% and 25+ hours = B
70 - 79% and 20+ hours = C
60 - 69% and 20+ hours = D
Below 60% or <20 hours = F

Caveats:

  1. It is the student's responsibility to read the course syllabus, A.A.C. information sheet, program sheet and any other material provided to the student by the A.A.C. staff in which procedures, policies, grading guidelines, etc., are explained.

  2. No more than four (4) hours per day will count toward the required hours.

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you are a student with a disability and if you are in need of accommodations or services, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services and make a formal request. To schedule an appointment with an Access Advisor or for additional information, you may send an email or call Access Services at (913)469-3521. Access Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center (SC 202).

AAC 093

  • Title: Algebra Preparation
  • Number: AAC 093
  • Effective Term: 2021-22
  • Credit Hours: 1
  • Contact Hours: 1
  • Lecture Hours: 1

Description:

This self-instructional course is designed for students who possess basic math skills and want to learn basic concepts in algebra. Based on the results of a pretest administered during the student's initial visit to the center, an individualized program is established. Using instructional material provided by the AAC, students will master a variety of concepts, including the terminology of mathematics and algebra, simplifying open expressions, solving algebraic equations and other concepts. An Academic Achievement Center instructor will be available to work with the student to establish specific instructional goals, administer tests and provide individualized instruction as needed to complete the student's program. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 20 hrs./semester.

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu/

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives

Individual student goals will be based on the student’s pretest; however, those goals will be selected from the course objectives listed below.

  1. The student will demonstrate mastery of the language of algebra.

  2. The student will demonstrate the ability to simplify open algebraic expressions.

  3. The student will demonstrate the ability to differentiate counting numbers, integers and rational numbers.

  4. The student will demonstrate the ability to write algebraic expressions.

  5. The student will demonstrate the ability to solve algebraic equations.

  6. The student will demonstrate the ability to solve linear equations.

  7. The student will demonstrate the ability to find common solutions by graphing, adding and substitution.

  8. The student will demonstrate the ability to use the quadratic formula to solve problems.

  9. The student will demonstrate the ability to factor polynomials.

  10. The student will demonstrate the ability to solve equations using polynomial fractions.

  11. The student will demonstrate the ability to simplify radical expressions.

  12. The student will demonstrate the ability to write numbers in scientific notation and to use logarithms.

  13. The student will demonstrate the ability to solve word problems by correctly identifying the computations necessary.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Determine Baseline Competency by Taking Pre-Test

II. Demonstrate Mastery of the Language of Algebra

A. Define set and give examples.

B. Apply mathematical/algebraic signs { }, <, >, <, >, ( ), [ ].

C. Define variable and give examples.

III. Simplify Open Equations

A. Solve simple equations.

B. Find truth sets.

IV. Demonstrate Mastery of Counting Numbers, Integers, and Rational Numbers

A. Compare and contrast counting numbers, integers, and rational numbers.

B. Solve problems using arithmetic of integers.

C. Solve problems using arithmetic of rational numbers.

D. Solve problems using algebra of rational numbers.

V. Write Algebraic Equations

A. Simplify algebraic equations.

B. Develop equations for word problems.

VI. Solve Algebraic Equations

A. Solve equations using the set of integers.

B. Solve pairs of equations.

C. Solve equations and inequalities.

D. Solve systems of equations.

VII. Solve Linear Equations

VIII. Find Common Solutions by Graphing, Addition, and Substitution

A. Graph equations with 2 variables.

B. Substitute variables to find solutions.

IX. Demonstrate Mastery of the Quadratic Formula and Ability to Solve Quadratic Equations

A. Solve quadratic equations by factoring.

B. Solve quadratic equations by completing the square.

C. Solve quadratic equations using the quadratic formula.

X. Factor Polynomials

XI. Solve Equations Using Polynomial Fractions

XII. Simplify Radical Expressions

A. Identify perfect squares.

B. Simplify radical expressions.

C. Locate position of irrational number on the real number line.

D. Simplify nth-root expressions.

E. Multiply binomials involving radical expressions.

F. Simplify radical fractions.

XIII. Apply Scientific Notation and Use Logarithms

A. Define exponent.

B. Multiply like bases with rational number exponents.

C. Divide like bases with rational number exponents.

D. Write numbers in scientific notation.

E. Locate logarithms on the table.

F. Multiply and divide using logarithms.

XIV. Solve Word Problems by Determining the Correct Algebraic Process

A. Solve problems involving coins of mixed value.

B. Solve problems involving mixtures.

C. Solve problems of time, distance, and rate.

XV. Determine Completion Competency by Taking the Post-Test

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

Chapter tests and a completed course notebook.  During the first five hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, each student will be asked to select one of the following grading systems.

Regardless of the grading system chosen, each student is required to complete a minimum of 4 chapter tests, attaining a score of 70% or greater on each chapter. Chapter tests constitute 80% of the course grade, and the notebook makes up 20% of the course grade. Students should consult with an instructor before selecting the pass/fail or the standard grading system.

Pass/Fail:
In order to receive a grade of “P” (pass), the student must complete the minimum required chapter tests at 70%, must complete at least 20 hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center prior to taking to post-test, must submit a course notebook for evaluation, and must show improvement based on the pretest and the post-test scores. Failure to complete any of the above will result in the “F” grade.

Standard Letter Grade System:
20-30+ hours of study in the Academic Achievement Center, minimum of 4 chapter tests at 70%, course notebook, improvement based on the pretest and post-test scores.

Grade Criteria:

90 - 100% = A
80 - 89% = B
70 - 79% = C
60 - 69% = D
0 - 59% = F

Caveats:

  1. It is the student's responsibility to read the course syllabus, A.A.C. information sheet, program sheet and any other material provided to the student by the A.A.C. staff in which procedures, policies, grading guidelines, etc., are explained.

  2. No more than four (4) hours per day will count toward the required hours.

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you are a student with a disability and if you are in need of accommodations or services, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services and make a formal request. To schedule an appointment with an Access Advisor or for additional information, you may send an email or call Access Services at (913)469-3521. Access Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center (SC 202).

AAC 099

  • Title: Study Skills
  • Number: AAC 099
  • Effective Term: 2021-22
  • Credit Hours: 1
  • Contact Hours: 1
  • Lecture Hours: 1

Description:

This course is designed to improve students' ability to study efficiently. Students will master basic cognitive learning theory, time management, textbook reading, note taking from textbook and from lecture, and test taking. This course does not fulfill degree requirements. 16 hrs./semester.

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu/

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives

  1. Explain and apply the Cornell note-taking system.
  2. List and describe the stages of the learning process.
  3. Identify and apply cognitive strategies for effective learning.
  4. Identify and apply time management techniques.
  5. Identify and apply a textbook reading-studying technique that includes pre-reading, reading, note taking, information processing, and recall practice.
  6. Identify and apply effective listening techniques to lectures.
  7. Identify and apply appropriate test-taking strategies for different exam question formats.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Cornell Note-taking System

A. Describe the page layout and function of each section.

B. List techniques for effective note-taking.

C. Explain how to use Cornell notes as a study tool.

D. Practice taking and reciting from Cornell notes.

II. Stages of the Learning Process

A. List the 3 stages of exposure, review, and practice.

B. List and explain study activities associated with each stage.

C. Explain how the Cornell Note-taking system correlates with this learning process.

III. Cognitive Strategies for Effective Learning

A. List common false beliefs that lead to failure.

B. Define metacognition and explain its importance to learning.

C. Distinguish between shallow and deep processing.

D. List and explain deep processing techniques such as elaboration, distinction, mapping, question generation, application to personal experience, and practicing appropriate retrieval.

E. Apply deep processing techniques.

IV. Time Management Techniques

A. Create a weekly study schedule.

B. Create a semester schedule.

C. Create and maintain a daily to-do list or study log.

D. Describe general techniques for effective time management.

V. Study-Reading Techniques

A. Explain pre-reading strategies.

B. Apply pre-reading strategies to textbook assignments.

C. Explain how question generation improves reading comprehension.

D. Apply question generation to textbook assignments.

E. Apply the Cornell System for note-taking.

F. Explain information processing strategies (mapping, graphic organizers).

G. Apply information processing strategies to textbook material.

​ H. Apply practice or recall strategies to textbook material.

VI. Listening Techniques for Lectures

A. Distinguish between listening and hearing.

B. List and explain strategies for effective listening.

C. Contrast effective listening strategies with those used by poor listeners.

D. Apply listening techniques while taking notes during a lecture.

VII. Test-Taking Techniques

A. Explain the difference between objective and subjective tests.

B. Identify the parts of a multiple choice question.

C. List and explain strategies for answering multiple choice questions.

D. Identify the parts of an essay question.

E. List and explain strategies for answering an essay test question.

F. Analyze personal test taking errors by reviewing previously graded tests.

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

10 - 20%    Attendance
60 - 80%    Graded Work (Homework and Tests)
10 - 20%    Final Notebook Evaluation

Total: 100%

Grade Criteria:

90 - 100% = A
80 - 89% = B
70 - 79% = C
60 - 69% = D
0 - 59% = F

Caveats:

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you are a student with a disability and if you are in need of accommodations or services, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services and make a formal request. To schedule an appointment with an Access Advisor or for additional information, you may send an email or call Access Services at (913)469-3521. Access Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center (SC 202).