University Invites Public to Free TASP Preparation Seminars

High school students, community members, and University students who need to prepare for the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) test are invited to attend free TASP preparation seminars at Texas A&M International University Oct. 16 - 20 and Oct. 28.

The free seminars will provide an overview and review of essential skills and knowledge needed to successfully complete the TASP test. The seminars are sponsored by the University's Academic Enrichment Center (AEC) and will be presented by tutors from the AEC Tutoring Center.

Kimber Palmer, Senior Tutor, noted the seminar content has been tailored to address students' needs.

"We are doing something very different this time. In response to student requests, seminars will be devoted to each TASP test subject and we will allow more time for question and answer. Also, we have added a day-long Saturday seminar," explained Palmer.

Seminars focusing on TASP math preparation are scheduled Oct. 16 - 19, 12:30 to 3 p.m., in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 212. Topics to be covered for these seminars are as follows: Monday, Oct. 16 - "Fundamentals of Math," Tuesday, Oct. 17 - "Algebra," Wednesday, Oct. 18 - "Geometry," and Thursday, Oct. 19 - "Problem Solving."

A TASP writing seminar will be held on Friday, Oct. 20, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., in Killam Library, room 206. This seminar will review grammar, essay organization, reading comprehension and test taking skills.

A day-long math seminar will be held on Saturday, October 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Killam Library, room 212. It will include overviews of math fundamentals, algebra, geometry, and problem solving but will focus on answering questions from participants. Tutors will work with individuals and small groups to answer questions and identify specific areas which participants must include in their preparation for the TASP.

"These tutors are A&M International students who are well-versed in their particular subject matter and have a great deal of experience in successful test-taking. As peers of the seminar participants they offer a unique perspective which effectively reaches their audience," said Palmer.

TASP is a statewide program required by Texas law to ensure that students entering Texas public colleges and universities have the basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills needed to be successful in college level work. All full- or part-time students enrolled at Texas public colleges and universities and those entering any educator preparation program in Texas must take the TASP, unless qualified for TASP exemption.

A&M International will administer the TASP on Nov. 11.

Students who need more information on the TASP workshops may contact the AEC Tutoring Center, 326-2132.

Students who need more information on the TASP test should call the AEC Testing Center at 326-2130.

University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu