Overview

Students who plan to enroll or are enrolled in CHM 111 for the Fall 2023 semester should take the ALEKS PPL assessment before July 2nd. The purpose of this assessment is to provide incoming students with feedback on their preparedness in mathematics, an essential skill for success in CHM 111 in order to create a Fall schedule that will maximizes student's personal growth while finding balance in the transition to college life. You can enroll in CHM 111 before completing ALEKS PPL, but we encourage students to do so if possible.

Students who plan to enroll in MTH 111 and CHM 111 will have one ALEKS PPL score used for both courses. 

Frequently Asked Questions for CHM 111

How long does the ALEKS PPL assessment normally take?

Though students are provided 4 hours to take the assessment, most students take around an hour to complete the assessment (approximately 25 items). Students are encouraged to find a space and time where they will not be interrupted and only use the resources allowed by ALEKS. 

Do I need to earn a score 50 to enroll in CHM 111?

No. The ALEKS PPL assessment is not required for enrollment in CHM 111. Students who plan to or are already enrolled in CHM 111 are asked to take the ALEKS PPL assessment to help with advising for other courses and gauge student preparation for general chemistry. Students enrolled in CHM 111 with ALEKS scores lower than 50 will be contacted by Dr. Wren via email to make a custom schedule that works for student's short and longterm educational goals. 

What should I do if I do not get a score of 50 or above on the ALEKS PPL assessment?

Students are encouraged to work on topics they have yet to master in ALEKS for the required 5 hours before reattempting the assessment. This will increase your preparation for the math required in CHM 111 and increase your assessment score on your second attempt. It is OK not to have a score over 50 if you made your best effort the first time. ALEKS PPL is one of many feedback tools available to Wake Forest students and faculty to help create the best Fall schedule for all students coming from unique and diverse education backgrounds. 

What if I choose not to take the ALEKS PPL or reattempt to earn a score above 50?

Students who do not take the assessment or earn a score below 50 will be able to enroll and/or stay registered in CHM 111. Chemistry faculty or OAA staff may reach out in either case to provided additional advising support. Wake Forest has made this powerful learned and assessment tool free to all incoming students to maximize preparation and confidence in a Fall schedule that will work for a student's academic goals. 

Why am I required to take a MATH assessment for a Chemistry course?

Over 20 years of research has shown that mathematical preparation is a key predictor of student success in general chemistry at the college level. CHM 111 will cover essential Chemistry content, but gaps in mathematical principles are not explicitly covered in the course and can provide distinct challenges for students. Students with lower mathematical preparation may choose to take MTH 111 in the Fall and wait to take CHM 111 until the Spring semester, or design a Fall schedule that allows for additional time for CHM 111. Each student is unique which is why one-on-one communications with both the Office of Academic Advising and Dr. Wren will allow students to make an informed decision that they feel will provide them the best chance of success in the Fall and for their longterm goals at Wake Forest.