When choosing the best reading & writing class to start college with, it will be helpful to use your assessment results and to consider course expectations, course topics, and skills needed to succeed in the course.

Interpret your Accuplacer Assessments

Composite Score (Reading + Writing)Recommended Course(s)
400-472Community & Internet Resources
473-498Foundations of Reading & Writing (ENG-0120)
499-524Reading & Writing for College (INT-0050)
Dimensions of Self & Society (INT-1050)
525-600Dimensions of Self & Society (INT-1050)
English Composition (ENG-1061)

Course Expectations

In a developmental reading & writing course:

  • The pace is slower, and you will have the chance to develop skills that you may have forgotten or never had the chance to learn.
  • You should be able to read for 30-45 minutes at a time.
  • You will be expected to read several short essays or pieces of literature outside of class each week.
  • You will be expected to complete written assignments of 1-3 typed pages each week.
  • You should be able to use feedback to regularly make changes to your writing.
  • You should be able to use a computer to write your assignments.

In a college-level reading & writing course like Dimensions of Freedom, Dimensions of Work, or English Composition:

  • The pace is quicker and you will be expected to complete longer and more complex assignments.
  • Many of your assignments will require multiple steps and timelines.
  • You should be able to read for several hours at a time.
  • You will be expected to read 50-75+ pages of a novel/book or 5+ essays per week.
  • You will be expected to complete written assignments of 3-5 typed pages each week.
  • You may be quizzed on the material you read and/or discuss as part of the class.
  • You may be asked, in the Dimensions class, to complete a final paper or project that integrates beginning research skills. In English Composition, you must complete a final paper that integrates scholarly research and correct citation.
  • You should be able to use the computer to compose and revise your written assignments, complete online tutorials, find and evaluate sources for research assignments, locate course handouts and materials, and participate in online discussions.

Review the complete guide to choosing the best reading & writing and English course. (PDF)

For complete course descriptions, go to our catalog.

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