Questions and Answers about Benchmarks

General questions

1) Do I have to do this?

Yes. If you don't complete that year's benchmark report you will not be able to register for the next semester. The report helps us see your progress throughout the semester.

2) Why do I have to do this?

Writing a benchmark report helps us to see what you have or have not learned during the semester. It helps you learn to become aware of your own growth as an independent learner.

3) Do I write each answer in one paragraph or in an essay?
4) How long does the whole benchmark report have to be?

You can answer a point in one paragraph or in essay form as long as you answer each point completely and accurately.

5) What should I use as examples?

6) What do you mean by proof?

You should give examples of the work you've turned in to your instructors. You can include drafts of work that show how you've improved. For example, to show how you “learned to follow a course syllabus” (Freshman Benchmarks, I-A-1), you could include an actual syllabus, explain how it was helpful, and detail what you actually did. In general, the best proof consists of any concrete examples you can find.

7) What if I haven't experienced some of these things? How can I write about something I don't know?

Ask a classmate, or figure out why you haven't experienced it. See if this benchmark is something you can accomplish this year.

Freshman benchmark questions

8) What are academic conventions (Academic Benchmarks, II-D-4)?

Academic conventions are the various styles and formats such as the MLA or APA Stylesheets that you've learned doing assignments and writing papers. They are what you use in order to complete your academic coursework.

9) What is college decorum (Personal Benchmarks, A)?

College decorum refers to the way you ought to act in various college situations and settings.

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