Can the WRAT-4 Math Computation Subtest Predict Final Grade in College-Level Science

Seventy-one, freshman through senior undergraduate college students 28 males and 43 females, M age =22.34 yr., SD = 4.20 in 5 different science classes were administered the Wide Range Achievement Test Fourth Edition (WRAT-4) Math Computation Subtest. Predictive validity coefficients were calculated relative to the criterion of the final class grade. The validity coefficient for the pre-course WRAT score was statistically significant. The WRAT-4 Math subtest can be used by instructors to examine performance on specific items to judge the appropriateness of a student’s placement in either entry-level or advanced science courses. However, high school grades are also a good predictor of completing the college curriculum and should be used along with math computation skills scores. Also motivation to complete college level science courses and socioeconomic status may be covariates in predicting college science final grade and eventual graduation from college.