Center for Student Success

Preparation Course for the MTBS or ACT WorkKeys

All candidates for a Michigan provisional teaching certificate must pass a test in basic skills. Candidates must pass the Michigan Basic Skills Test before enrolling in the School of Education at a college or university. Paraprofessionals may take either the Michigan Basic Skills Test or ACT WorkKeys Test to meet the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act.

This course prepares learners for the three sections of Michigan Test of Basic Skills or WorkKeys: reading, math, and writing. Students may prepare for all three sections or they may prepare for the section(s) where they have the greatest need. An assessment determines the areas of strengths and weakness and show areas to study. The program offers preparation in:

Reading: MTBS: This section covers reading skills and literature.
WorkKeys: "Reading for Information" required level 4.
Mathematics: MTBS: This section covers math fundamentals, pre-algebra, geometry, graph-reading skills, and problem solving.
WorkKeys: "Applied Math" required level 4.
Writing: MTBS: This section covers English grammar and writing skills. On the test day, students are given a topic and are to submit an essay of approximately 200 words.
WorkKeys: "Writting" required level 3.

The computer-assisted program is designed for adult learners. It is self-paced and flexible, allowing students to study when it suits their schedules. The instruction is individualized, guiding students to work only on areas that they need to study.

Teacher Certification: Basic Skills     CSS 012     1 contact hour

  • There is no charge for assessment. The assessment determines areas of strength and weakness.
  • Students may enroll any time.
  • Once enrolled, students may use the program as often as they like during the open hours of the Center for Student Success, Bert Walker Hall Room 125.
  • The program saves all work and results, provided there is correct log in/log out. Make an appointment for the first day, since passwords must be assigned. Please telephone the number below or e-mail at: julia_hanawalt@jccmi.edu
  • Alternate telephone number for an appointment: Bethany at 517-796-8415.

Julia Hanawalt, instructor
517-796-8415
125 Walker Hall
Center for Student Success
Jackson Community College

Updated: 08/26/2008