Diagnosis

Diagnosis identifies the entry skill level for each operation. To get to diagnosis, click the Diagnosis button under Activity at the main window . You can use Diagnosis for pre-testing, placement and post-testing. It creates new test problems each time it operates. The Diagnosis activity provides an objective means of measuring improvement over time.

In Diagnosis, you solve a series of problems. This series advances through the different skill levels in each operation. If you get enough problems correct at a skill level, the program automatically gives you problems at the next level. If you do not get enough correct, the program gives you problems at the next lower level. You can challenge your skill level anytime by repeating Diagnosis to try to reach a higher level. Diagnosis takes time, so make sure to set aside enough time to go from beginning to end. Follow these directions to use Diagnosis:

Solve the Problem

When the Diagnosis window appears, you see a problem with a number bar on the left. You can put a number in the answer two ways: 1) Type the number at the keyboard, or 2) Use the number bar. Move the arrow over a number on the number bar. Click the number you want in the answer. (See How to Put Numbers in Answers)

Check the Problem

When you finish answering the problem, click the Check Problem button. The program checks your answer and you may get another problem. The program does not tell you if you are right or wrong during Diagnosis.

Finish Diagnosis

You keep getting problems until you have answered problems at all the levels, or until you cannot answer problems correctly. You can also choose Quit to stop Diagnosis anytime. When you complete Diagnosis, Math Skill Builders assigns your starting skill level. This is the suggested level for the other activities. If you have completed all the levels in an operation, you receive a Certificate of Accomplishment. Click Print to print the certificate. The program records the results of Diagnosis in Reports

How to Customize Diagnosis

Grid On : You can show the problem on a grid, to help line up the numbers. Click Grid On if you want a grid on the screen. Click Grid Off if you do not want a grid.

You can change how Diagnosis works in Preferences. Choose Options to:

• change the rules for progressing through Diagnosis
• set the number of problems per level in Diagnosis
• set the total number of problems you get in Diagnosis
• control whether the program guides where to place numbers
• control whether the learner must show work in solutions
• turn the grid on automatically