The Florida Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is a vital tool used to assess the skills of incoming college students in Florida. This assessment helps determine whether students are ready for college-level coursework in subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics. For many students, preparing for the PERT is crucial, as it can impact their placement in college courses and their overall academic success. This comprehensive study guide will provide you with essential information, resources, and tips to help you excel in the PERT.
Understanding the PERT
The PERT is a computer-based test designed to measure students’ readiness for postsecondary education. Unlike standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT, the PERT is specifically tailored to assess the skills needed for success in Florida's colleges and universities.
Structure of the PERT
The PERT consists of three main sections:
1. Reading: This section evaluates comprehension skills and the ability to analyze and interpret written material.
2. Writing: This part assesses grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and the ability to write effectively.
3. Mathematics: This section tests arithmetic, algebra, and geometry skills.
Each section is adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of questions adjusts based on the test-taker's performance.
Scoring
The PERT is scored on a scale of 50 to 150, with the following benchmarks indicating college readiness:
- Reading: A score of 106 or higher is required to enroll in college-level reading courses.
- Writing: A score of 103 or higher is necessary for college-level writing courses.
- Mathematics: A score of 114 or higher is needed for college-level math courses.
Students who do not achieve these scores may need to take developmental courses before enrolling in credit-bearing classes.
Preparing for the PERT
Preparation is key to performing well on the PERT. Here are several strategies and resources to help you get ready:
Study Materials
1. Official PERT Study Guide: The Florida Department of Education provides a free study guide that includes sample questions and explanations of concepts covered in the test.
2. Textbooks and Workbooks: Use high school-level textbooks that cover reading, writing, and mathematics. Look for workbooks that include practice tests and exercises.
3. Online Resources: Websites like Khan Academy, Quizlet, and other educational platforms offer practice questions, instructional videos, and flashcards tailored to the PERT.
Practice Tests
Taking practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the PERT. Here are some tips:
- Simulate Test Conditions: When taking practice tests, try to replicate the testing environment. Limit distractions, time yourself, and avoid using notes or other resources.
- Review Your Mistakes: After completing a practice test, review the questions you answered incorrectly and understand why. This will help reinforce your knowledge and improve your skills.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your practice test scores to monitor your improvement over time.
Study Schedule
Creating a study schedule can help you manage your time effectively. Consider the following steps:
1. Set Goals: Define specific study goals for each subject area.
2. Allocate Time: Dedicate regular study sessions each week leading up to the test day.
3. Include Breaks: Ensure that you take breaks to avoid burnout and maintain focus.
Subject-Specific Strategies
Each section of the PERT requires different strategies and skills. Here’s how to approach each area:
Reading
- Practice Active Reading: Engage with the material by summarizing paragraphs and asking questions about the content.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Read a variety of texts, including fiction, non-fiction, and articles, to enhance your vocabulary and comprehension skills.
- Focus on Main Ideas: Pay attention to the main ideas and supporting details in passages, as well as the author’s tone and purpose.
Writing
- Review Grammar Rules: Brush up on grammar rules, including verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and punctuation.
- Practice Essay Writing: Write essays on various topics, focusing on organization, clarity, and coherence. This will help you prepare for any writing prompts you may encounter.
- Edit and Revise: Develop your editing skills by revising your writing for clarity, conciseness, and grammatical accuracy.
Mathematics
- Master Key Concepts: Focus on fundamental concepts in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Make sure you understand operations with fractions, percentages, equations, and geometric properties.
- Solve Word Problems: Practice solving word problems, as they often appear on the test. Break problems down into smaller steps and look for keywords that indicate specific operations.
- Use Online Resources: Websites like Khan Academy and Mathway can provide additional practice and explanations for challenging concepts.
Test Day Tips
On the day of the test, it’s important to stay calm and focused. Here are some tips for test day:
- Get Plenty of Rest: Ensure you are well-rested the night before the test to keep your mind sharp.
- Eat a Healthy Breakfast: A nutritious meal will provide you with the energy needed to concentrate.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the testing location. This will help reduce anxiety.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Take your time to read the instructions for each section thoroughly before proceeding.
- Manage Your Time: Keep an eye on the clock and pace yourself throughout the test. If you encounter a difficult question, consider moving on and returning to it later.
Conclusion
Preparing for the Florida PERT can seem daunting, but with the right strategies, resources, and mindset, you can achieve a passing score and ensure your readiness for college-level coursework. Use this study guide to create a structured plan, practice diligently, and approach the test with confidence. Remember, the PERT is just one step in your educational journey, and successful preparation will set a positive tone for your future academic endeavors. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Florida PERT test?
The Florida PERT (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test) is a state-required assessment for college readiness in mathematics, reading, and writing, used by Florida colleges to determine if students are prepared for college-level courses.
How can I prepare for the Florida PERT test?
To prepare for the Florida PERT test, you can use study guides, practice tests, online resources, and review materials that focus on the subjects of math, reading, and writing. Additionally, many colleges offer free workshops or tutoring.
What topics are covered in the Florida PERT math section?
The Florida PERT math section covers topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics. It assesses your problem-solving skills and understanding of mathematical concepts.
Is there a passing score for the Florida PERT test?
Yes, there are minimum passing scores for each section of the Florida PERT test. Generally, a score of 113 in reading and writing and 114 in math is considered passing for college readiness, but specific scores may vary by institution.
How many times can I take the Florida PERT test?
You can take the Florida PERT test up to three times, with a minimum waiting period of 30 days between attempts. It’s important to use the time between tests to study and improve your skills.
Where can I find a Florida PERT study guide?
You can find Florida PERT study guides through various sources, including college websites, educational bookstores, online platforms like Amazon, and free resources available from community colleges and educational websites.
