PLACEMENT EXAM
Overview of the exam
The exam is designed to distinguish language performance at the first, second, third and fourth semester level of German as presently taught at St. Olaf College. After filling in a short questionnaire of background information, please move to the multiple-choice section that tests grammar knowledge and reading comprehension. The next section of the exam tests writing skills important to third and fourth semester German at St. Olaf College. Please do all the multiple-choice questions for placement in first and second semester German. The computer will evaluate your work on the multiple-choice portion of the exam and, if you score high enough, the computer will ask you to complete the writing assignments.
For placement into third and fourth semester German you should complete all of the writing questions.
Taking the exam
In the multiple-choice section there is only one correct answer for each item. Answer as many questions as quickly as possible and return to more difficult questions after you have finished the exam. There is no penalty for incorrect answers and you may go back and change your choice. Your score will be the total number of correct answers. If your score for the multiple-choice section of the exam is high enough, the computer will ask you to attempt the writing section of the exam. Please attempt all the writing sections if you proceed to this part of the exam.
Timing the exam
There is a time limit of 90 minutes for the entire exam, including the multiple choice and the writing sections. Estimated time needed for the multiple-choice section is not more than 60 minutes and not more than 45 minutes for the three writing assignments. The more language experience you have had, the faster you will finish the multiple-choice questions. And the more language experience you have had, the farther into the exam you will need to progress to reach your point of placement. Not all students will score high enough to need to attempt the writing section. Please wait for a computer evaluation of your work on the multiple-choice section of the exam for a decision on whether or not you need to proceed to the writing portion of the exam.
Writing the paragraphs
For the best assessment of your writing level, please do not use any grammar notes or charts and please do not consult a dictionary. The exam is designed to take students at their first response and to use any supporting materials would only distort the diagnosis of your placement. You may stop the exam at any point when you realize your German is no longer sufficient. After reading these instructions, please proceed directly to the questionnaire and to the exam. Please work carefully and if you finish early, take time to edit your answers.
You will find the German placement exam online at: http://fusion.stolaf.edu/german/
You may also contact Professor Karl Fink at kjfink@stolaf.edu if you have questions about your placement or about the German program at St. Olaf College.
