Examples of College Readiness

The twelve examples that follow are excerpts from David Conley, who has conducted research on college readiness for about 20 years. Even though the list below is not an all-inclusive list, it does illustrate what a student should be able to do with some proficiency to succeed in college. Are you college ready?

1. Write a 3- to 5-page research paper that is structured around a coherent line of reasoning, incorporate references from several credible and appropriate citations; is relatively free from spelling, grammatical, and usage errors; and is clear and easily understood by the reader.

2. Read with understanding a range of non-fiction publications and technical materials, utilizing appropriate decoding and comprehension strategies to identify key points; note areas of question or confusion, remember key terminology, and understand the basic conclusions reached and points of view expressed.

3. Employ fundamentals of algebra to solve multi-step problems, including problems without one obvious solution and problems requiring additional math beyond algebra; do so with a high degree of accuracy, precision and attention to detail, and be able to explain the rationale for the strategies pursued and the methods utilized.

4. Conduct basic scientific experiments or analyses that require the following: use of the scientific method; an inquisitive perspective on the process; interpretation of data or observations in relation to an initial hypothesis; possible or plausible explanation of unanticipated results; and presentation of findings to a critical audience using the language of science, including models, systems, and theories.

5. Conduct research on a topic and be able to identify successfully a series of source materials that are important and appropriate to explain the question being researched; organize and summarize the results from the search, and synthesize the findings in a coherent fashion relevant to the larger question being investigated.

6. Interpret two conflicting explanations of the same event or phenomenon, taking into account each author's perspective, the cultural context of each source, the quality of the argument, its underlying value positions, and any potential conflict of interest an author might have in presenting a particular point of view.

7. Punctually attend a study group outside of class with students who represent a continuum of academic abilities and cultural backgrounds, incorporating the strengths of group members to complete the assignment or project at hand or prepare successfully for the exam or presentation in question.

8. Complete  a problem or assignment successfully that requires about two weeks of independent work and extensive research, utilizing periodic feedback from teachers and other pertinent resources along the way to revise and improve the final product.

9. Create and maintain a personal schedule that includes a to-do list with prioritized tasks and appointments.

10. Utilize key technological tools including appropriate computer software to complete academic tasks such as conducting research, analyzing data sets, writing papers, preparing presentations, and recording data.

11. Locate websites that contain information on colleges, the admissions process, and financial aid, and navigate such websites successfully, comparing the programs and requirements of several colleges and assessing the financial requirements and feasibility of attending each.

12. Present an accurate self-assessment of readiness for college by analyzing and citing evidence from classroom work and assignments, grades, courses taken, national and state exams taken, and a personal assessment of maturity and self-discipline.

David Conley