Expository Writing Directed Self-Placement
Dear New Students:
Welcome to Skidmore! The College's Expository Writing Program uses a Directed Self-Placement (DSP) process to place students into the appropriate course level for the Expository Writing Requirement. Directed Self-Placement asks you to write a short essay in response to a brief text and then reflect thoughtfully about your essay, your writing process, and your abilities as a writer so that you can choose the expository writing course that best suits your needs as a writer. Please note: Directed Self-Placement uses no computer algorithms; the placement selection comes directly from you.
The DSP takes about 90 minutes. Once you have begun the program, you cannot stop or exit, so select a comfortable place to work uninterruptedly.
Here is how the Directed Self-Placement program works:
1. For the first part of the DSP, read the provided text and then write an essay in response to the question about the reading.
2. Next, answer the questions about your writing process and your experiences as a writer. You may review your essay as you consider your answers.
3. Read the three excerpts from the writing of actual Skidmore students. Then select the sample which most closely resembles your own writing.
4. Read the catalog descriptions of our three writing courses. Choose the course description that seems to address your needs as a writer best while also challenging you to further develop your writing skills.
5. To conclude, review and reflect upon the answers you have given and selections you have made. At this point, you will also be given additional quantitative information about our expository writing seminars along with course descriptions of each of the classes. After carefully reviewing this information, write a brief explanation of your selection and state the course you have chosen.
You must complete the Directed Self-Placement before you will be permitted to register for an expository writing course.
If you have any questions about the DSP process, please contact Professor Michael Marx (518-580-5173 or mmarx@kyzt365.com).
If you require extended time for exams, you will be given the opportunity to start the Directed Self-Placement with extended time when you begin.