-Mathematics I, Mathematics II

The AST Mathematics I & II and GSAT Mathematics differ in terms of their goals of evaluation and levels of difficulty. GSAT Mathematics evaluates students’ knowledge of basic high school mathematics concepts and ability to solve problems using this knowledge. Meanwhile, the AST Mathematics I &II focus on students’ ability to express mathematical ideas and to solve problems using inductive and deductive reasoning skills.

Objectives

Like the GSAT Mathematics, the AST Mathematics I &II evaluate students’ conceptual and procedural knowledge of math as well as their ability to solve math problems. However, the AST Math tests also aim to assess students’ ability to read, communicate, and connect mathematical ideas, as well as to enhance their inductive and deductive reasoning skills.

1. Conceptual knowledge

   For example: Students’ ability to recognize a certain math concept and the theory behind it

2. Procedural knowledge

   For example: Students’ ability to read mathematical charts, figures, and use formulas and procedures to solve math problems
   

3. Ability to read and communicate mathematical ideas

   For example: Students’ ability to understand a problem and to deliver a solution in mathematical language

4. Ability to connect math knowledge with other aspects of life

   For example: Students’ ability to understand different mathematical ideas and connect them with other fields of academic knowledge or life experiences

5. Inductive and deductive reasoning

   For example: Students’ ability to apply mathematical models and logical thinking while doing inductive and deductive reasoning

6. Ability to solve math problems

   For example: Students’ ability to apply math knowledge, choose effective strategies, use deductive skills when solving math problems, and check the legitimacy and accuracy of the solutions

Scope

The questions on the AST Mathematics I &II are based on the 2010 version of the Senior High School Curriculum Guidelines for 10th to 12th grade mathematic courses.

Focus of the Questions

The AST Mathematics evaluates students’ knowledge of important math concepts and their ability to use this knowledge. Therefore, rather than testing specific math concepts, AST Mathematics questions require students to analyze math problems and use their knowledge of several math concepts to come up with solutions. Also, the non-multiple-choice questions on the AST Mathematics are designed to evaluate students’ ability to read, analyze, and communicate mathematical ideas. For example, the AST Mathematics I asks students to perform mathematical inductions and calculations, while the AST Mathematics II requires students to identify math concepts, procedures, and methods in different scenarios as well as to showcase ability in mathematical deduction and communication.