Pre-Apprentice Training Introduction

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Introduction

The content has been carefully selected to match most skilled trades apprenticeship entry requirements. The text has been designed to provide the apprentice applicant with the basic skills necessary to pass most apprenticeship entry examinations. However, not all apprenticeships utilize the same examination criteria. For example. it's probably not necessary for carpenters to solve algebraic equations (Chapter 7). but it is important for them to have a working knowledge of whole numbers (Chapter 2), fractions & decimals (Chapter 3), graphic math (Chapter 9). geometry (Chapter 8), and how to read a ruler (Chapter 4). All trades. including carpenters require mechanical and spatial skills (Chapters 10 & 12). Basic electricity (Chapter 11). while primarily for electricians, is important knowledge for trades that work around electricity. but probably won't be included in most other trades apprenticeship examinations.

Generally speaking the more technical the trade. i.e.: Tool and Die Maker. Machinist, Electrician. etc. the more higher level math is required. The higher math however, requires a strong base of fractions, decimals and whole numbers. Students have a tendency to want to skip the basic math. but test research shows most incorrect responses on apprenticeship tests are due to simple math errors. The basic math chapters are also important because the student gains confidence in order to deal with the more advanced problems.

The chapter tests have been timed so that students will feel some pressure to finish within the time limits. Probably the best advice we can give to potential test takers is to practice taking tests under timed conditions in order to get used to the pressure.

Applicants for all apprenticeships should spend time on test-taking techniques (Chapter 14) and the apprenticeship-selection interview (Chapter 15). Classroom instructors are also encouraged to arrange for practice interviews in order to prepare students for the actual interview.

Students who are studying independently, should take all of the timed chapter tests before and after they have completed their study. We recommend that classroom instructors use both a pre and post-test to identify areas of concentration and to measure student and class progress. Instructors have the authors' permission to make copies of the chapter tests for classroom use.

While the authors feel that all of the text's content is relevant, and that each chapter builds a knowledge base for future apprenticeship related classroom study. we also recognize that it goes beyond what is essential to do well on the apprenticeship test.

We encourage classroom instructors to do what good teachers have always done. that is. experiment with the content and be innovative in helping your students learn. Examples include using cardboard cut-outs to help develop spatial skills and utilizing alternate mechanical and spatial practice tests. Sharing of these creative ideas can be accomplished on our web site - pre-apprenticetrainlng.com

Good luck and we wish you well.

Jack Martin
Mary Serich