PISA 2012 Recruitment, Pre-Assessment Activities, Questionnaires and Background Items

Program for International Student Assessments (PISA) 2012 Main Study

PISA 2012 Full Scale Appendix C

PISA 2012 Recruitment, Pre-Assessment Activities, Questionnaires and Background Items

OMB: 1850-0755

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APPENDIX C: PISA FIELD TEST QUESTIONNAIRES

1. School Questionnaire
2. Student Questionnaire Form A
3. Student Questionnaire Form B
4. Student Questionnaire Form C
5. Student Questionnaire Form D
6. Financial Literacy Background Questions Set 1
7. Financial Literacy Background Questions Set 2

OECD Program for
International Student Assessment 2012
USA

Date of Test (Field Trial PISA 2012)
2011
Day

ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC
CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Month

School
Questionnaire

Place Label Here

School ID
English 313

U.S. participation in this study is sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), U.S. Department of Education. Your responses are protected by federal statute (20 U.S.C., §
9573). Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law. By law, everyone working on
this NCES survey is subject to a jail term of up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both if he or she willfully discloses ANY identifiable information about you.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB
control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0755. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 40 minutes per response, including the time to
review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time
estimate(s) or suggestions for improving the form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have comments or concerns regarding the status of
your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
O.M.B. No. 1850-0755, Approval Expires 11/30/2013

Project Consortium
 Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER)
 cApStAn Linguistic Quality Control (Belgium)
 Deutsches Institut für Internationale Pädagogische Forschung
(DIPF, Germany)
 Educational Testing Service (ETS, USA)
 Institutt for Lærerutdanning og Skoleutvikling (ILS, Norway)
 Leibniz - Institute for Science and Mathematics Education
(IPN, Germany)
 National Institute for Educational Policy Research (NIER, Japan)
 The Tao Initiative: CRP - Henri Tudor and Université de Luxembourg
EMACS (Luxembourg)
 Unité d'analyse des systèmes et des pratiques d'enseignement
(aSPe, Belgium)
 Westat (USA)

This questionnaire asks for information including:
 The structure and organization of the school;
 The student body and teachers;
 The school’s resources;
 The school’s instruction, curriculum and assessment;
 The school climate;
 The school’s policies and practices;
 Financial education at school.
This information helps illustrate the similarities and differences between groups
of schools in order to better establish the context for students’ test results. For
example, the information provided may help to establish what effect the
availability of resources may have on student achievement – both within and
between countries.
The questionnaire should be completed by the principal or designee.
It should take about 40 minutes to complete.
For some questions, specific expertise may be needed. You may consult experts
to help you answer these questions.
If you do not know an answer precisely, your best estimate will be adequate for
the purposes of the study.
Some questions ask about 10th grade or 10th graders. If you do not have a
10th grade in your school, then answer these questions for the grade in your
school that contains the most 15-year-olds.
All information (or responses) you provide may only be used for statistical
purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other
purpose except as required by law [Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002
(ESRA 2002), 20 U.S. Code, Section 9573].

2

SECTION A: THE STRUCTURE AND ORGANIZATION OF
THE SCHOOL
SC01

Q1

Is your school a public or a private school?
(Please check only one box.)
A public school

1

A private school

2

SC02

Q2

About what percentage of your total funding for a typical
school year comes from the following sources?
(Please write a number in each row. Write 0 (zero) if no funding comes
from that source.)
%

a) Government (includes departments, local, state, and federal)

__________

b) Tuition, student fees, or school charges paid by parents

__________

c) Benefactors, donations, bequests, sponsorships, parent fundraising

__________

d) Other

__________
Total

3

100%

SC03

Q3

Which of the following definitions best describes the
community in which your school is located?
(Please check only one box.)
A village, hamlet, or rural area (fewer than 3,000 people)

1

A small town (3,000 to about 15,000 people)

2

A town (15,000 to about 100,000 people)

3

A city (100,000 to about 1,000,000 people)

4

A large city (with over 1,000,000 people)

5

SC04

Q4

We are interested in the options parents have when choosing a
school for their children.
Which of the following statements best describes the
schooling available to students in your location?
(Please check only one box.)
There are two or more other schools in this area that compete for our students.

1

There is one other school in this area that competes for our students.

2

There are no other schools in this area that compete for our students.

3

4

SC05

Q5

What is the average size of English classes in the 10th grade
in your school?
(Please check only one box.)
15 students or fewer

01

16-20 students

02

21-25 students

03

26-30 students

04

31-35 students

05

36-40 students

06

41-45 students

07

46-50 students

08

More than 50 students

09

5

SC06

Q6

The following questions are about the amount of
instructional time in your school.

a) How many instructional weeks are
in the school year?

____ out of 52 weeks

(Please check one box in each row.)
<30
hours

b) On the average, how many hours in
total are there in the school week?
(include lunch breaks, study hall
time, and after school activities)

1

1

0 hours

d) How many hours for instruction in
mathematics are there in the school
week? (exclude lunch breaks and
after-school activities)

1

6

33-35
hours

2

<22
hours

c) How many hours for instruction in
all subjects are there in the school
week? (exclude lunch breaks and
after school activities)

30-32
hours

36-40
hours

3

22-26
hours

2

1-2
hours

2

41-45
hours

4

27-31
hours

3

3-4
hours

3

5

32-36
hours

4

5-6
hours

4

>45
hours

6

>36
hours

5

>6
hours

5

SECTION B: THE STUDENT BODY AND TEACHERS
SC07

Q7

As of February 1, 2011, what was the total school enrollment
(number of students)?
(Please write a number in each line. Write 0 (zero) if there are none.)

Q8

a) Number of boys:

________________

b) Number of girls:

________________

Approximately what percentage of students at this school last
year were eligible for free- or reduced-price lunches through
the National School Lunch Program?
(Please write a number on the line. Write 0 (zero) if there are none.)

Percentage of students eligible:

__________
SC08

Q9

About what percentage of students in your school repeated a
grade, at these levels, last academic year?
(Please write a number in each row. Write 0 (zero) if nobody repeated a
grade. Check the ‘not available’ box if the grade does not exist in your
school.)
%

a) The approximate percentage of students repeating a grade
at middle/junior high school level (grades 7-9) in this
school last year was:
b) The approximate percentage of students repeating a grade
at high school level (grades 10-12) in this school last year
was:

7

_________

_________

Grade not
available in
this school

996

996

SC09

Q10

How many of the following teachers are on the staff of your
school?
Include both full-time and part-time teachers. A full-time teacher is employed at
least 90% of the time as a teacher for the full school year. All other teachers
should be considered part-time.

(Please write a number in each space provided. Write 0 (zero) if there
are none.)
Full-time

Part-time

a) Teachers in TOTAL

____

____

b) Teachers fully certified by the state in the main
assignment field

____

____

c) Teachers with at least a bachelor’s degree

____

____

8

SC10

Q11

How many of the following are on the mathematics staff
of your school?
Include both full-time and part-time teachers. A full-time teacher is employed
at least 90% of the time as a teacher for the full school year. All other
teachers should be considered part-time.
Please count only those teachers who have taught or will teach mathematics
during the current school year.

(Please write a number in each space provided. Write 0 (zero) if
there are none.)
Full-time

Part-time

a) Teachers of mathematics in TOTAL

____

____

b) Teachers of mathematics with a bachelor’s or
master’s degree with a major in mathematics,
mathematics education, statistics, physics, or
engineering

____

____

c) Teachers of mathematics with a bachelor’s or
master’s degree but not a major in mathematics,
mathematics education, statistics, physics, or
engineering

____

____

d) Teachers of mathematics with a bachelor’s or
master’s degree in education

____

____

e) Teachers of mathematics with an associate’s degree
but not a bachelor’s or master’s degree

____

____

9

SECTION C: THE SCHOOL’S RESOURCES
The goal of the following set of three questions is to gather information about the studentcomputer ratio for students in the 10th grade at your school.
SC11

Number

Q12a

Q12b

Q12c

At your school, what is the total number of
students in the 10th grade?

______________

Approximately how many computers are
available for these students for educational
purposes?

______________

Approximately how many of these computers
are connected to the Internet?

______________

10

SC12

Q13

Which of the following statements describe the 10th grade
students’ access to computers in your school?
(Please check one box per row.)
Yes

a) The school provides one or more specially equipped
computer rooms/labs for students’ use.

No

1

2

1

2

c) The school provides each student with a laptop.

1

2

d) Each student provides his or her own laptop.

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

b) The school provides a pool of laptops (i.e., at least one set for
an average class size) for students’ use.

e) Each student has one laptop, partly funded by the school and
partly funded by the students or their parents.
f) Students have access to computers or laptops during classes
only.
g) Students have access to computers or laptops outside classes
(e.g., during breaks or free lessons).

SC13

Q14

In all subjects taken together, for how much of their work
does the school expect the 10th grade students to access
the Internet?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
<10%

10-25%

26-50%

51-75%

>75%

a) Work during class

1

2

3

4

5

b) Homework

1

2

3

4

5

c) Assignments or projects

1

2

3

4

5

11

SC14

Q15

Is your school’s capacity to provide instruction hindered by
any of the following issues?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Not at
all

Very
little

To some
extent

A lot

a) A lack of qualified science teachers

1

2

3

4

b) A lack of qualified mathematics teachers

1

2

3

4

c) A lack of qualified English teachers

1

2

3

4

d) A lack of qualified teachers of other subjects

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

e) Shortage or inadequacy of science laboratory
equipment
f) Shortage or inadequacy of instructional
materials (e.g., textbooks)
g) Shortage or inadequacy of computers for
instruction
h) Lack or inadequacy of Internet connectivity
i) Shortage or inadequacy of computer software
for instruction
j) Shortage or inadequacy of library materials
k) Shortage or inadequacy of school buildings
and grounds
l) Shortage or inadequacy of heating/cooling and
lighting systems
m) Shortage or inadequacy of instructional space
(e.g., classrooms)

12

SECTION D: SCHOOL INSTRUCTION, CURRICULUM, AND
ASSESSMENT
SC15

Q16

Schools sometimes organize instruction differently for students
with different abilities and interests in mathematics. Which of the
following options describe what your school does for the
10th grade students in mathematics classes?
(Please check one box in each row.)
For all
classes

a) Mathematics classes study similar
content, but at different levels of
difficulty.
b) Different classes study different content
or sets of mathematics topics that have
different levels of difficulty.
c) Students are grouped by ability within
their mathematics classes.
d) In mathematics classes, teachers use
pedagogy suitable for students with
heterogeneous abilities (i.e., students are
not grouped by ability).

13

For some
classes

Not for any
classes

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

SC16

Q17

In this academic year, which of the following activities does
your school offer to students in the 10th grade?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

No

a) Band, orchestra or choir

1

2

b) School play or school musical

1

2

c) School yearbook, newspaper or magazine

1

2

d) Volunteering or service activities

1

2

e) Mathematics club

1

2

f) Mathematics competitions

1

2

1

2

1

2

i) Art club or art activities

1

2

j) Sports team or sports activities

1

2

g) Chess club
h) Club with a focus on computers/
Information and Communication
Technology

14

SC17

Q18

Does your school offer any of the following options to students
in the 10th grade whose first language is not English?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) These students attend regular classes and
receive additional periods of instruction
aimed at developing English skills (e.g.,
reading literacy, grammar, vocabulary,
communication).
b) Before transferring to regular classes,
these students attend a preparatory
program aimed at developing English
skills (e.g., reading literacy, grammar,
vocabulary, communication).
c) Before transferring to regular classes,
these students receive some instruction in
school subjects through their first
language.
d) These students receive significant amounts
of instruction in their first language aimed
at developing proficiency in both
languages.
e) Class size is reduced to cater to the special
needs of these students.

15

No

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

SC18

Q19

In your school, are assessments of students in the 10th
grade used for any of the following purposes?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Yes

No

a) To inform parents about their child’s progress

1

2

b) To make decisions about students’ retention or promotion

1

2

c) To group students for instructional purposes

1

2

1

2

e) To monitor the school’s progress from year to year

1

2

f) To make judgments about teachers’ effectiveness

1

2

1

2

1

2

d) To compare the school to district, state, or national
performance

g) To identify aspects of instruction or the curriculum
that could be improved
h) To compare the school with other schools

SC19

Q20

In your school, are achievement data used in any of the
following accountability procedures?
Achievement data include aggregated school or grade-level test scores or grades,
or graduation rates.

(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) Achievement data are posted publicly (e.g., in the media)
b) Achievement data are tracked over time by an administrative authority,
such as a district, state, or national education agency

16

No

1

2

1

2

SC20

Q21

Does your school offer mathematics lessons or classes
in addition to the mathematics classes offered during
the usual school hours?
(Please check only one box.)

Yes

1

No

2

go to the next
question
go to Q22
SC21

Q22

What is the purpose of these additional mathematics
lessons?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

No

a) Enrichment mathematics only

1

2

b) Remedial mathematics only

1

2

1

2

1

2

c) Both enrichment mathematics and remedial
mathematics
d) Without differentiation depending on the prior
achievement level of the students

17

SECTION E: SCHOOL CLIMATE
SC22

Q23

In your school, to what extent is the learning of students
hindered by the following phenomena?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Not at
all

Very
little

To some
extent

A lot

a) Student truancy

1

2

3

4

b) Students skipping classes

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

e) Students lacking respect for teachers

1

2

3

4

f) Disruption of classes by students

1

2

3

4

g) Student use of alcohol or illegal drugs

1

2

3

4

h) Students intimidating or bullying other students

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) Students being late for classes during the school
day
d) Students not attending compulsory school events
(e.g., school assemblies) or excursions

i) Students not being encouraged to achieve their
full potential
j) Poor student-teacher relations

18

Not at
all

Very
little

To some
extent

A lot

k) Teachers having to teach students of
heterogeneous ability levels within the same
class.

1

2

3

4

l) Teachers having to teach students of diverse
ethnic backgrounds (i.e., language, culture)
within the same class.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

n) Teachers not meeting individual students’ needs

1

2

3

4

o) Teacher absenteeism

1

2

3

4

p) Staff resisting change

1

2

3

4

q) Teachers being too strict with students

1

2

3

4

r) Teachers being late for classes

1

2

3

4

s) Teachers not being well prepared for classes

1

2

3

4

m) Teachers’ low expectations of students

19

SC23

Q24

During the last academic year, what proportion
of students left your school without a diploma or
an alternative credential (e.g., a GED)?
Only include students who dropped out of school
without a diploma or alternative credential (e.g., a
GED), not students who moved or transferred to
another school.

%

______________

SC24

Q25

Which statement below best characterizes parental
expectations towards your school?
(Please check only one box.)
There is constant pressure from many parents, who expect our school to set
very high academic standards and to have our students achieve them.
Pressure on the school to achieve higher academic standards among students
comes from a minority of parents.
Pressure from parents on the school to achieve higher academic standards
among students is largely absent.

20

1

2

3

SC25

Q26

During the last academic year, for what proportion of students
did parents participate in the following school-related
activities?
(Please write a number in each row. Write 0 (zero) if no parents
participated in the activity. Write 100 (one hundred) if all parents
participated in the activity)
%

a) Discussed their child’s behavior with a teacher on their own initiative

__________

b) Discussed their child’s behavior on the initiative of one of their child’s
teachers

__________

c) Discussed their child’s academic progress with a teacher on their own
initiative

__________

d) Discussed their child’s academic progress on the initiative of one of their
child’s teachers

__________

e) Volunteered for physical activities, e.g., building maintenance,
carpentry, gardening or yard work

__________

f) Volunteered for extra-curricular activities, e.g., book club, school play,
sports, field trip

__________

g) Volunteered in the school library or media center

__________

h) Assisted a teacher in the school

__________

i) Appeared as a guest speaker

__________

j) Participated in local school government, e.g., PTA, parent advisory
council

__________

k) Fundraising for the school

__________

21

SC26

Q27

Think about the teachers in your school. How much do you
agree with the following statements?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) The morale of teachers in this school is
high.
b) Teachers work with enthusiasm.
c) Teachers take pride in this school.
d) Teachers value academic achievement.

22

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SC27

Q28

How much do you agree with these statements about
innovation in your school?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) Mathematics teachers are interested in
trying new methods and teaching
practices.
b) There is a preference among
mathematics teachers to stay with
well-known methods and practices.
c) There are frequent disagreements
between ‘innovative’ and ‘traditional’
mathematics teachers.

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SC28

Q29

How much do you agree with these statements about
teachers’ expectations in your school?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) There is consensus among
mathematics teachers that academic
achievement must be kept as high as
possible.
b) There is consensus among
mathematics teachers that it is best to
adapt academic standards to the
students’ levels and needs.
c) There are frequent disagreements
between mathematics teachers who
consider each other to be ‘too
demanding’ or ‘too lax.’

23

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SC29

Q30

How much do you agree with these statements about
teaching goals in your school?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) There is consensus among
mathematics teachers that the social
and emotional development of
students is as important as their
acquisition of mathematical skills
and knowledge in mathematics
classes.
b) There is consensus among
mathematics teachers that the
development of mathematical skills
and knowledge in students is the
most important objective in
mathematics classes.
c) There are frequent disagreements
between mathematics teachers who
consider each other as ‘too focused
on skill acquisition’ or ‘too focused
on the affective development’ of
students.

24

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SC30

Q31

During the last year, have any of the following methods
been used to monitor the practice of mathematics
teachers at your school?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) Tests or assessments of student
achievement
b) Teacher peer review (of lesson plans,
assessment instruments, lessons)
c) Principal or senior staff observations of
lessons
d) Observation of classes by inspectors or
other persons external to the school

25

No

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

SC31

Q32

Concerning appraisal of and/or feedback to teachers, to
what extent have they directly led to any of the following?
(Please check one box in each row.)
No
change

a) A change in salary.
b) A financial bonus or another kind of
monetary reward.
c) Opportunities for professional
development activities.
d) A change in the likelihood of career
advancement.
e) Public recognition from you.
f) Changes in work responsibilities that
make the job more attractive.
g) Role in school development
initiatives (e.g., curriculum
development group, development of
school objectives).

26

A small
change

A
moderate
change

A large
change

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SECTION F: SCHOOL POLICIES AND PRACTICES
SC32

Q33

How often are the following factors considered when students
are admitted to your school?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Never

a) Student’s record of academic performance
in general (including placement tests)

Sometimes

Always

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

g) Residence in a particular area

1

2

3

h) Other

1

2

3

b) Student’s record of performance
specifically in mathematics (including
placement test)
c) Recommendation of feeder schools
d) Parents’ endorsement of the instructional
or religious philosophy of the school
e) Whether the student requires or is
interested in a special program
f) Preference given to family members of
current or former students

27

SC33

Q34

Regarding your school, who has a considerable
responsibility for the following tasks?
(Please check as many boxes as appropriate in each row.)

Principals

a) Selecting teachers
for hire

Teachers

Schoollevel
governing
board

Local
education
agency

State
education
agency

U.S.
Department
of
Education

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

c) Establishing
teachers’ starting
salaries

1

1

1

1

1

1

d) Determining
teachers’ salary
increases

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

i) Approving students
for admission to the
school

1

1

1

1

1

1

j) Choosing which
textbooks are used

1

1

1

1

1

1

k) Determining course
content

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

b) Firing teachers

e) Formulating the
school budget
f) Deciding on budget
allocations within
the school
g) Establishing student
disciplinary policies
h) Establishing student
assessment policies

l) Deciding which
courses are offered

28

SC34

Q35

Below are statements about your management of this school.
Please indicate the frequency of the following activities and
behaviors in your school during the last academic year.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Less
than
once a
year

a) I work to enhance the school’s
reputation in the community.

Once a
year

3-4
times a Once a
year
month

Once a
week

More
than
once a
week

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

d) I ensure that teachers work according
to the school’s educational goals.

1

2

3

4

5

6

e) I promote teaching practices based
on recent educational research.

1

2

3

4

5

6

f) I praise teachers whose students are
actively participating in learning.

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

b) I use student performance results to
develop the school’s educational
goals.
c) I make sure that the professional
development activities of teachers
are in accordance with the teaching
goals of the school.

g) When a teacher has problems in
his/her classroom, I take the
initiative to discuss matters.
h) I draw teachers’ attention to the
importance of students’ development
of critical and social capacities.
i) I pay attention to disruptive behavior
in classrooms.
j) I provide staff with opportunities to
participate in school decisionmaking.

29

Less
than
once a
year

k) I engage teachers to help build a
school culture of continuous
improvement.

Once a
year

3-4
times a Once a
year
month

Once a
week

More
than
once a
week

1

2

3

4

5

6

l) I ask teachers to participate in
reviewing management practices

1

2

3

4

5

6

m) When a teacher brings up a
classroom problem, we solve the
problem together.

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

o) I refer to the school’s academic goals
when making curricular decisions
with teachers.

1

2

3

4

5

6

p) I discuss academic performance
results with the faculty to identify
curricular strengths and weaknesses.

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

n) I discuss the school’s academic goals
with teachers at faculty meetings.

q) I lead or attend in-service activities
concerned with instruction.
r) I set aside time at faculty meetings
for teachers to share ideas or
information from in-service
activities.
s) I conduct informal observations in
classrooms on a regular basis
(informal observations are
unscheduled, last at least 5 minutes,
and may or may not involve written
feedback or a formal conference).
t) I review student work products when
evaluating classroom instruction.
u) I ensure that the classroom priorities
of teachers are consistent with the
goals and direction of the school.

30

SC35

Q36

During the last three months, what percentage of teaching staff
in your school has attended a program of professional
development with a focus on mathematics?
A program of professional development here is a formal program designed to enhance
teaching skills or pedagogical practices. It may or may not lead to a recognized
qualification. The total length of the program must last for at least one day and have a
focus on the teaching and education of mathematics.

a) All staff at your school

_______________ %

b) Staff who teach mathematics at your school

_______________ %

SC36

Q37

Who has the main responsibility for career guidance of
students in the 10th grade at your school?
(Please check only one box.)
Not applicable; career guidance is not available in this school.

1

All teachers share the responsibility for career guidance.

2

Specific teachers have the main responsibility for career guidance.

3

We have one or more specific career guidance counselors employed at school.

4

We have one or more specific career guidance counselors who regularly visit
the school.

31

5

SC37

Q38

If career guidance is available at your school, which of the
statements below best describes the situation for students in
the 10th grade?
Please skip this question if career guidance is not available at your school.
Otherwise, please check only one box.
Career guidance is sought voluntarily by students.

1

Career guidance is formally scheduled into students’ time at school.

2

SC38

Q39

To what extent do you feel that teachers in your school
concentrate on developing in students the skills and
knowledge that will help them in tertiary (post-secondary)
education?
(Please check only one box.)
These skills and knowledge are not a major part of teachers’ pedagogical
activities
These skills and knowledge are integrated into teachers’ pedagogical activities,
but they are not emphasized
These skills and knowledge are a focus of teachers’ pedagogical activities

32

1

2

3

SC39

Q40

Which of the following measures aimed at quality
assurance and improvement do you have in your school?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) A written specification of the school’s curricular profile
and educational goals

No

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

e) Internal evaluation/self-evaluation

1

2

f) External evaluation

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

b) Written specification of student performance standards
c) Systematic recording of data, including teacher and
student attendance and graduation rates, test results,
professional development of teachers
d) Analysis of professional development needs and
development of a professional development plan for
teachers and school leadership

g) Seeking written feedback from students (e.g., regarding
classes, teachers or resources)
h) Teacher mentoring
i) Regular consultation aimed at school improvement with
one or more experts over a period of at least six months
j) Implementation of a standardized policy for mathematics
(e.g., school curriculum with shared instructional
materials accompanied by staff development and
training.)
k) The school has written induction information for new
teachers
l) The school takes new teachers through the induction
information

33

SC40

Q41

Which of the following statements apply in your school?
A policy refers to written rules known to those concerned by the
policy.
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) The school has a policy on how to use computers in
mathematics instruction, (e.g., amount of computer
use in mathematics classes, use of specific
mathematics computer programs).
b) All the 10th grade mathematics classes in the school
use the same textbook.
c) Mathematics teachers in the school follow a
standardized curriculum that specifies content at
least on a monthly basis.

No

1

2

1

2

1

2

SC41

Q42

How is the attendance of students at your school
monitored?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

No

a) Student attendance is recorded every morning.

1

2

b) Student attendance is recorded in every class.

1

2

1

2

1

2

c) Students (or their parents) report their absences to the
school.
d) Principal or other member of the school leadership
personally monitors students’ attendance.

34

SC42

Q43

At your school, how is student truancy followed-up?
(Please check all that apply.)
Truancy once or
twice

a) Oral warning to student

Repeated or ongoing
truancy

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

e) Parents contacted by phone

1

1

f) Written warning to parents

1

1

g) Parents invited to school

1

1

h) Home visit

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

b) Extra duties for student, e.g., picking up
litter, additional assignments, giving up
breaks or staying after school
c) Written warning to student
d) Agreement/contract about attendance with
student

i) Consultation with student by specialized
staff, e.g., social worker or guidance
counselor
j) Suspension
k) Expulsion

35

SC43

Q44

Which of the following statements apply in your school?
A policy refers to written rules known to those concerned by the policy.

(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) The school had a policy for monitoring and reacting
to student truancy three years ago.
b) The leadership of the school regarded student
truancy as a problem three years ago.
c) The school currently has a policy for monitoring
and reacting to student truancy.

No

Don’t
know

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

SC44

Q45

In your school, how likely is it that a student in the 10th grade
would be transferred to another school because of the
following reasons?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Not likely

Likely

Very likely

a) Low academic achievement

1

2

3

b) High academic achievement

1

2

3

c) Behavioral problems

1

2

3

d) Special learning needs

1

2

3

e) Parents’ or guardians’ request

1

2

3

f) Other

1

2

3

36

SECTION G: FINANCIAL EDUCATION AT SCHOOL
The following four questions are about financial education in your school.
Financial education involves topics such as money and transactions; planning
and managing finances (including saving and spending; credit and debt; and
financial decision-making); risk and reward (investment and insurance); and
financial landscape (including consumer rights and responsibilities and
understanding of the wider financial, economic and social system).
SC45

Q46

Is financial education compulsory in your school?
(Please check only one box.)
Yes

1

No

2

37

SC46

Q47

Which of the statements below describe the teaching of
financial education at your school?
For each statement, please indicate the number of hours of financial
education of this type for students in the 10th grade during the last
academic year?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Not at
all

a) It is taught as a separate subject.
b) It is taught as a cross-curricular
subject.
c) It is taught as part of business or
economics courses.
d) It is taught as part of other social
sciences and humanities subjects
(e.g., history, geography, home
economics, civics).
e) It is taught as part of mathematics.
f) It is available as an extracurricular
activity.

1-4
hours a
year

5-19
hours
year

50 or
more
hours a
year

20-49
hours a
year

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

For the following two statements please respond with yes or no.
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

g) It is provided by people from outside your
school, from private sector finance institutions
(e.g., commercial bank, insurance company).
h) It is provided by people from outside your
school, NOT from private sector finance
institutions (e.g., Department of Commerce,
Reserve Bank).

38

No

1

2

1

2

SC47

Q48

Which of the statements below best describes the situation
for students in the 10th grade regarding the availability of
financial education in your school?
(Please check only one box.)
Financial education is not available.

1

Financial education has been available for less than
two years.

2

Financial education has been available for two years or
more.

3

SC48

Q49

Which of the statements below best describe the situation for
teachers at your school regarding professional development
in financial education?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) Financial education is required as part of
pre-service education for teachers who
teach financial education.
b) Financial education is offered as part of
pre-service education for teachers who
teach financial education.
c) Professional development in financial
education is available to teachers who
teach financial education.
d) Teachers have attended professional
development in financial education in the
past 12 months.

No

Not
applicable

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

Thank you very much for your cooperation in
completing this questionnaire!
39

40

OECD Program for
International Student Assessment 2012
USA

Date of Test (Field Trial PISA 2012)
2011
Day

ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC
CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Month

Student Questionnaire Form A

Place Label Here

Student ID
Participation Status
English 313
U.S. participation in this study is sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), U.S. Department of Education. Your responses are protected by federal statute (20
U.S.C., § 9573). Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law. By law,
everyone working on this NCES survey is subject to a jail term of up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both if he or she willfully discloses ANY identifiable information about you.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid
OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0755. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 30 minutes per response,
including the time to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning
the accuracy of the time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving the form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have comments or
concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), National Center for Education
Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
O.M.B. No. 1850-0755, Approval Expires 11/30/2013

Project Consortium
 Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER)
 cApStAn Linguistic Quality Control (Belgium)
 Deutsches Institut für Internationale Pädagogische Forschung
(DIPF, Germany)
 Educational Testing Service (ETS, USA)
 Institutt for Lærerutdanning og Skoleutvikling (ILS, Norway)
 Leibniz - Institute for Science and Mathematics Education
(IPN, Germany)
 National Institute for Educational Policy Research (NIER, Japan)
 The Tao Initiative: CRP - Henri Tudor and Université de Luxembourg
EMACS (Luxembourg)
 Unité d'analyse des systèmes et des pratiques d'enseignement
(aSPe, Belgium)
 Westat (USA)

In this booklet you will find questions about:

You (Section A)

Your Family and Home (Section B)

Learning Mathematics (Section C)

Your Mathematics Experiences (Section D)

Your Problem Solving Experiences (Section E)
Please read each question carefully and answer as accurately as you
can. In the test, you usually circled your answers. For this
questionnaire, you will normally answer by checking a box. For a
few questions, you will need to write a short answer.
If you make a mistake when checking a box, cross out your error and
check the correct box. If you make an error when writing an answer,
simply cross it out and write the correct answer next to it.
In this questionnaire, there are no right or wrong answers. Your
answers should be the ones that are right for you.
You may ask for help if you do not understand something or are not
sure how to answer a question.
All information (or responses) you provide may only be used for
statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in
identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by
law [Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (ESRA 2002),
20 U.S. Code, Section 9573].

2

SECTION A: ABOUT YOU
ST01

Q1

What grade are you in?
__________
grade

ST03

Q2

When were you born?
(Please write the month, day, and year you were born.)
______

____________

Month

19___

Day

Year

ST04

Q3

Are you female or male?
Female
1

Male
2

3

Q4

Which best describes you?
(Please check only one box.)

Q5

I am Hispanic or Latino.

1

I am not Hispanic or Latino.

2

Which of these categories best describes your race?
(Please check one or more boxes.)
White

1

Black or African American

1

Asian

1

American Indian or Alaska Native

1

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

1

4

Q6

Did you attend kindergarten?
No

1

Yes

2

ST07

Q7

Have you ever repeated a grade?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
No, never

Yes, once

Yes, twice or
more

a) In kindergarten

1

2

3

b) In grades 1-6

1

2

3

c) In grades 7-9

1

2

3

d) In grades 10-12

1

2

3

ST08

Q8

In the last two full weeks you were in school, how many
times did you arrive late for school?
(Please check only one box.)
None

1

One or two times

2

Three or four times

3

Five or more times

4

5

Q9

What is the highest grade or level of school you expect to
complete?
(Please check only one box.)
Less than high school

1

High school

2

Vocational or technical certificate (such as
cosmetology or auto mechanics)
Associate’s degree (2-year degree from a
community college)

3

4

Bachelor’s degree (4-year college degree)

5

Master’s degree

6

Doctoral or professional degree such as
medicine or law

6

7

SECTION B: ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND HOME
ST25

Q10

What language do you speak at home most of the time?
(Please check only one box.)
English

313

Spanish

156

Other language

859

7

ST26

Q11

Which of the following are in your home?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

No

a) A desk to study at

1

2

b) A room of your own

1

2

c) A quiet place to study

1

2

d) A computer you can use for school work

1

2

e) Educational software

1

2

f) A link to the Internet

1

2

g) Classic literature (e.g., Shakespeare)

1

2

h) Books of poetry

1

2

i) Works of art (e.g., paintings)

1

2

j) Books to help with your school work

1

2

k) Technical reference books or manuals

1

2

l) A dictionary

1

2

m) A dishwasher

1

2

n) A DVD player

1

2

o) A guest room

1

2

p) A high-speed Internet connection

1

2

q) A musical instrument

1

2

8

ST27

Q12

How many of these are there at your home?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
None

One

Two

Three or
more

a) Cell phones

4

b) Televisions

4

c) Computers

4

d) Cars

4

e) Bathrooms with a bathtub or
shower

4

ST28

Q13

How many books are there in your home?
There are usually about 15 books per foot of shelving. Do not include
magazines, newspapers, or your schoolbooks.
(Please check only one box.)
0-10 books

1

11-25 books

2

26-100 books

3

101-200 books

4

201-500 books

5

More than 500 books

6

9

SECTION C: ABOUT LEARNING MATHEMATICS
ST38

Q14

If you had to choose between the following options, which
would you prefer?
(Please show how close your opinion is to the statements below by
checking one of the boxes numbered 1 to 7 in each row.)
a) I am interested
in mathematics
lessons more
than in any other
lessons.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

I am interested
in mathematics
lessons less
than in any
other lessons.

b) I would be
happy to drop
mathematics if I
could.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

I would be sad
to drop
mathematics if
I had to.

c) I enjoy reading
about
mathematics.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

I avoid reading
about
mathematics.

07

I plan to do as
little
mathematics as
possible during
my education.

07

I enjoy doing
mathematics
problems and
puzzles outside
mathematics
lessons.

07

I do not look
forward to my
mathematics
lessons.

d) I plan to do as
much
mathematics as
possible during
my education.
e) I avoid doing
mathematics
problems and
puzzles outside
mathematics
lessons.
f) I look forward
to my
mathematics
lessons.

01

01

01

02

02

02

03

03

03

10

04

04

04

05

05

05

06

06

06

ST37

Q15

How confident do you feel about having to do the
following mathematics tasks?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
confident

a) Using a train schedule to figure out
how long it would take to get from
one place to another.
b) Calculating how much cheaper a
TV would be after a 30% discount.
c) Calculating how many square feet
of tile you need to cover a floor.
d) Understanding graphs presented in
newspapers.
e) Solving an equation like 3x+5= 17.
f) Finding the actual distance between
two places on a map with a
1:10,000 scale.
g) Solving an equation like
2(x+3) = (x + 3) (x - 3).
h) Calculating the gas mileage of a
car.

11

Confident

Not very
confident

Not at all
confident

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST45

Q16

You are a student in the following situation:
Last week you were having difficulty understanding a new
concept presented by the mathematics teacher. This week,
however, you are beginning to catch on. Today you are trying to
figure out why.
How likely are you to have these thoughts or feelings in this
situation?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
Likely

a) I am very good at solving mathematics
problems.

Likely

Slightly
likely

Not at
all likely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) The teacher explained it well this time.

1

2

3

4

d) This week I made good guesses.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

b) I made a special effort to study this
material in the mathematics textbook.

e) I realized the course material was easy
after all.
f) I actually studied enough during the past
week.
g) The teacher got me interested in the
material.
h) Sometimes I am lucky.

12

ST49

Q17

How often do you do the following things inside and outside
school?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Always or
almost
always

Often

Sometimes

Never or
rarely

a) I talk about mathematics problems
with my friends.

1

2

3

4

b) I help my friends with mathematics.

1

2

3

4

c) I do mathematics as an
extracurricular activity.

1

2

3

4

d) I take part in mathematics
competitions.

1

2

3

4

e) I do mathematics more than 2 hours
a day outside of school.

1

2

3

4

f) I play chess.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

h) I do mathematics even though I do
not like it.

1

2

3

4

i) I participate in a mathematics club.

1

2

3

4

g) I program computers.

13

ST55

Q18

How many hours do you typically spend per week
attending out-of-school-time lessons in the following
subjects?
These are only lessons in subjects that you are also learning at
school, that you spend extra time studying outside of normal school
hours. The lessons may be given at your school, at your home, or
somewhere else.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I do not
attend outof-school
time lessons
in this
subject

Less than 2
hours a
week

2 or more
but less
than 4
hours a
week

4 or more
but less
than 6
hours a
week

6 or more
hours a
week

a) English

1

2

3

4

5

b) Mathematics

1

2

3

4

5

c) Science

1

2

3

4

5

d) Other subjects

1

2

3

4

5

14

ST56

Q19

For those subjects in which you attend out-of-school-time
lessons, please indicate whether these lessons are either
remedial or enriching in nature.
Remedial lessons are providing help for students who have problems in
learning the respective subject, while enrichment lessons are providing
additional, mostly demanding content for students with high
achievement in the subject.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Remedial
lessons

Enrichment
lessons

Not applicable

a) English

1

2

3

b) Mathematics

1

2

3

c) Science

1

2

3

d) Other school subjects

1

2

3

e) Study skills

1

2

3

15

ST57

Q20 Thinking about all school subjects: On average, how
many hours do you spend each week on the following?
When answering, include time spent on the weekend too.

a) Homework or other material assigned by your
teachers

b) Out of the time spent in (a), how many hours do
you work on your homework with somebody
overlooking and providing help if necessary
(“guided homework”), either at school or
elsewhere?

_____ hours per week

_____ hours per week

c) Work with a personal tutor (whether paid or not)

_____ hours per week

d) Attend out of school classes organized by a
commercial company and paid for by your parents

_____ hours per week

e) Study with a parent or other family member

_____ hours per week

f) Practice content from school lessons by working
on a computer (e.g., learn vocabulary with training
software)

16

_____ hours per week

ST59

Q21

What grade did you receive in the following subjects both
on your last report card and the last school you attended?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
Last report card

Last school you
attended

a) English

_______

_______

b) Mathematics

_______

_______

c) Science

_______

_______

ST60

Q22

On your last report card, how did your grade compare with
the passing grade in each subject area?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
(Please check only one box on each row.)
Above the
passing grade

At the passing
grade

Below the
passing grade

a) English

1

2

3

b) Mathematics

1

2

3

c) Science

1

2

3

17

ST61

Q23 Have you been taught to do the following types of
mathematics tasks during your time in school?
(Please check only one box on each row.)
Frequently

a) Using a train schedule,
figuring out how long it
would take to get from one
place to another.

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

e) Solving an equation like
6x2 + 5 = 29

1

2

3

4

f) Finding the actual distance
between two places on a
map with a 1:10,000 scale.

1

2

3

4

g) Solving an equation like
2(x+3) = (x + 3)(x - 3)

1

2

3

4

h) Calculating the power
consumption of an
electronic appliance per
week.

1

2

3

4

b) Calculating how much more
expensive a computer would
be after adding tax.
c) Calculating how many
square meters of tile you
need to cover a floor.
d) Understanding scientific
tables presented in an
article.

18

ST62

Q24 Thinking about mathematical concepts: How familiar are you
with the following terms?
(Please check only one box in each row.)

Never
heard of it

Heard of
it once or
twice

Heard of
it a few
times

Know it
well,

Heard of
it often

understand

the
concept

a) Exponential Function

1

2

3

4

5

b) Divisor

1

2

3

4

5

c) Quadratic Function

1

2

3

4

5

d) Proper Number

1

2

3

4

5

e) Pythagorean Theorem

1

2

3

4

5

f) Linear Equation

1

2

3

4

5

g) Vectors

1

2

3

4

5

h) Complex Number

1

2

3

4

5

i) Rational Number

1

2

3

4

5

j) Radicals

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

n) Prime Number

1

2

3

4

5

o) Congruent Figure

1

2

3

4

5

p) Cosine

1

2

3

4

5

q) Arithmetic Mean

1

2

3

4

5

r) Area of a Circle

1

2

3

4

5

s) Probability

1

2

3

4

5

k) Subjunctive Scaling
l) Polygon
m) Declarative Fraction

19

ST39

Q25

To what extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Neither
agree
nor
disagree

Strongly
agree

a) I am interested in
mathematics lessons
more than in any other
lessons.
b) I would be happy to
drop mathematics if I
could.
c) I enjoy reading about
mathematics.
d) I plan to do as much
mathematics as
possible during my
education.
e) I avoid doing
mathematics problems
and puzzles outside
mathematics lessons.
f) I look forward to my
mathematics lessons.

Strongly
disagree

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

20

The next six questions are about your experience with different kinds of
mathematics problems in school. You will see a mathematics problem,
followed by some questions about your experience with the problem.
Please read each of the problems. You do NOT need to solve them.
ST63

Q26 Read the problem in the box below. Then, answer the
questions that follow it.
Below is a map of Antarctica

0

400

Kilometers

CONTINENT AREA
Estimate the area of Antarctica using the
map scale.
Show your work and explain how you made your estimate. (You can
draw over the map if it helps you with your estimation).

We want to know about your experience with this type of
problem in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

a) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in your
mathematics lessons?

1

2

3

4

b) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in the tests you have
taken in school?

1

2

3

4

21

ST64

Q27

Read the problem in the box below. Then, answer the
questions that follow it.

A

B

C

Describe a method for estimating the area of figure C.

We want to know about your experience with this type of
problem in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in your mathematics
lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in the tests you have
taken in school?

22

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST65

Q28 Read the problem in the box below. Then, answer the
questions that follow it.
A carpenter has 32 meters of timber and wants to make a border around a
garden bed. He is considering the following designs for the garden bed.
A

B
6m

6m

10m

10m

C

D
6m

6m

10m

10m

Circle either “Yes” or “No” for each design to indicate whether the garden bed
can be made with 32 meters of timber
Garden bed design
Using this design, can the garden bed be made
with 32 meters of timber?
Design A
Design B
Design C
Design D

Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No

We want to know about your experience with this type of
problem in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you encountered
this type of problem in your
mathematics lessons?
b) How often have you encountered
this type of problem in the tests
you have taken in school?
23

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST66

Q29

Read the problem in the box below. Then, answer the
questions that follow it.
A woman in the hospital receives an injection of penicillin. Her body
gradually breaks the penicillin down so that one hour after the injection only
60% of the penicillin will remain active.
This pattern continues: at the end of each hour only 60% of the penicillin
that was present at the end of the previous hour remains active.
Suppose the woman is given a dose of 300 milligrams of penicillin at 8
o’clock in the morning.
Complete this table showing the amount of penicillin that will remain
active in the woman’s blood at intervals of one hour from 8:00 until
11:00.
Time

8:00

Penicillin (mg)

9:00

10:00

11:00

300

We want to know about your experience with this type of
problem in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in your mathematics
lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in the tests you have
taken in school?

24

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST67

Q30

Read the problem in the box below. Then, answer the
questions that follow it.
Mei-Ling from Singapore was preparing to go to South Africa for 3 months as an
exchange student. She needed to change some Singapore dollars (SGD) into
South African rand (ZAR).
During these 3 months, the exchange rate had changed from 4.2 to 4.0 ZAR per
SGD.
Was it to Mei-Ling’s advantage that the exchange rate now was 4.0 ZAR
instead of 4.2 ZAR when she changed her South African rand back to
Singapore dollars? Give an explanation to support your answer.

We want to know about your experience with this type of
problem in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in your mathematics
lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in the tests you have
taken in school?

25

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST68

Read the problem in the box below. Then, answer the
questions that follow it.
A water tank has the shape and dimensions as shown in the diagram.
At the beginning, the tank is empty. Then it is filled with water at the rate of
one liter per second.
1.0m

1.5m

1.5m

Which of the following graphs shows how the height of the water surface
changes over time?
B

C

TIME

TIME

TIME

Height

A

E

D
Height

Q31

TIME

TIME

26

We want to know about your experience with this type of
problem in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in your mathematics
lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered this type of
problem in the tests you have
taken in school?

27

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST69

Q32

How many minutes, on average, are there in a class period
for the following subjects?
a) Minutes in a class period in English:

_________

Minutes

b) Minutes in a class period in mathematics:

_________

Minutes

c) Minutes in a class period in science:

_________

Minutes

ST70

Q33

How many class periods per week do you typically have
for the following subjects?
class

a) Number of class periods per week in English:

_________ periods

b) Number of class periods per week in mathematics:

_________ periods

c) Number of class periods per week in science:

_________ periods

class

class

ST71

Q34

In a normal, full week at school, how many class periods
do you have in total?
Number of ALL class periods

_________

class
periods

ST72

Q35

On average, about how many students attend your
English class?
________ students

28

SECTION D: ABOUT YOUR MATHEMATICS
EXPERIENCES
ST81

Q36

How often do these things happen in your mathematics
classes?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Every
class

a) Students don’t listen to what the
teacher says.
b) There is noise and disorder.
c) The teacher has to wait a long time
for students to quiet down.
d) Students cannot work well.
e) Students don’t start working for a
long time after the lesson begins.

29

Most
classes

Some
classes

Never or
hardly
ever

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SECTION E: ABOUT YOUR PROBLEM SOLVING
EXPERIENCES
The questions that follow have to do with how you make decisions.
You are given two to three choices. Your task is to decide between
the choices. Choose the box that matches your preference.
ST107

Q37

You are given two choices to make money: Which do you
prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
Accept $400

1

Flip a coin. If it comes up heads
you get $900; if it comes up tails
you get nothing.

2

ST111

Q38

You are given three choices to make money: Which do
you prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
To get $400 now

1

To get $500 in 3 months

2

To get $600 in 6 months

3

Thank you very much for your cooperation in
completing this questionnaire!

30

This page intentionally left blank.

31

32

OECD Program for
International Student Assessment 2012
USA

Date of Test (Field Trial PISA 2012)
2011
Day

ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC
CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Month

Student Questionnaire Form B

Place Label Here

Student ID
Participation Status
English 313
U.S. participation in this study is sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), U.S. Department of Education. Your responses are protected by federal statute (20
U.S.C., § 9573). Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law. By law,
everyone working on this NCES survey is subject to a jail term of up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both if he or she willfully discloses ANY identifiable information about you.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid
OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0755. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 30 minutes per response,
including the time to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning
the accuracy of the time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving the form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have comments or
concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), National Center for Education
Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
O.M.B. No. 1850-0755, Approval Expires 11/30/2013

Project Consortium
 Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER)
 cApStAn Linguistic Quality Control (Belgium)
 Deutsches Institut für Internationale Pädagogische Forschung
(DIPF, Germany)
 Educational Testing Service (ETS, USA)
 Institutt for Lærerutdanning og Skoleutvikling (ILS, Norway)
 Leibniz - Institute for Science and Mathematics Education
(IPN, Germany)
 National Institute for Educational Policy Research (NIER, Japan)
 The Tao Initiative: CRP - Henri Tudor and Université de Luxembourg
EMACS (Luxembourg)
 Unité d'analyse des systèmes et des pratiques d'enseignement
(aSPe, Belgium)
 Westat (USA)

In this booklet you will find questions about:

You (Section A)

Your Family and Home (Section B)

Learning Mathematics (Section C)

Your Problem Solving Experiences (Section D)
Please read each question carefully and answer as accurately as you
can. In the test, you usually circled your answers. For this
questionnaire, you will normally answer by checking a box. For a
few questions, you will need to write a short answer.
If you make a mistake when checking a box, cross out your error and
check the correct box. If you make an error when writing an answer,
simply cross it out and write the correct answer next to it.
In this questionnaire, there are no right or wrong answers. Your
answers should be the ones that are right for you.
You may ask for help if you do not understand something or are not
sure how to answer a question.
All information (or responses) you provide may only be used for
statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in
identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by
law [Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (ESRA 2002),
20 U.S. Code, Section 9573].

2

SECTION A: ABOUT YOU
ST01

Q1

What grade are you in?
__________
grade

ST03

Q2

When were you born?
(Please write the month, day, and year you were born.)
______

____________

Month

19___

Day

Year

ST04

Q3

Are you female or male?
Female
1

Male
2

3

Q4

Which best describes you?
(Please check only one box.)

Q5

I am Hispanic or Latino.

1

I am not Hispanic or Latino.

2

Which of these categories best describes your race?
(Please check one or more boxes.)
White

1

Black or African American

1

Asian

1

American Indian or Alaska Native

1

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

1

4

Q6

Did you attend kindergarten?
No

1

Yes

2

ST07

Q7

Have you ever repeated a grade?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
No, never

Yes, once

Yes, twice or
more

a) In kindergarten

1

2

3

b) In grades 1-6

1

2

3

c) In grades 7-9

1

2

3

d) In grades 10-12

1

2

3

ST08

Q8

In the last two full weeks you were in school, how many
times did you arrive late for school?
(Please check only one box.)
None

1

One or two times

2

Three or four times

3

Five or more times

4

5

Q9

What is the highest grade or level of school you expect
to complete?
(Please check only one box.)
Less than high school

1

High school

2

Vocational or technical certificate (such as
cosmetology or auto mechanics)
Associate’s degree (2-year degree from a
community college)

3

4

Bachelor’s degree (4-year college degree)

5

Master’s degree

6

Doctoral or professional degree such as
medicine or law

6

7

SECTION B: ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND HOME
In this section you will be asked some questions about your family
and your home.
Some of the following questions are about your mother and father or
those persons who are like a mother or father to you — for example,
guardians, step-parents, foster parents, etc.
If you share your time with more than one set of parents or
guardians, please answer the following questions for those
parents/guardians you spend the most time with.
ST11

Q10

Who usually lives at home with you?
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

No

a) Mother (including stepmother or foster mother)

1

2

b) Father (including stepfather or foster father)

1

2

c) Brother(s) (including stepbrothers)

1

2

d) Sister(s) (including stepsisters)

1

2

e) Grandparent(s)

1

2

f) Others (e.g., cousin)

1

2

7

ST12

Q11

What is your mother’s main job?
(e.g., school teacher, cook, sales manager)
(If she is not working now, please tell us her last main job.)
Please write in the job title. _____________________________________

Q12

What does your mother do in her main job?
(e.g., teaches high school students, helps prepare meals in
a restaurant, manages a sales team)
Please use a sentence to describe the kind of work she does or did in
that job.
___________________________________________________

ST13

Q13

What is the highest level of schooling (not including
college) completed by your mother?
If you are not sure which box to choose, please ask the test
administrator for help.
(Please check only one box.)
She completed grade 12 (high school
diploma or GED)

1

She completed grade 9

2

She completed grade 6

3

She did not complete grade 6

4

8

ST14

Q14

Does your mother have any of the following degrees,
certificates, or diplomas?
If you are not sure how to answer this question, please ask the test
administrator for help.
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) Master’s, doctoral, or professional degree
such as medicine or law
b) Bachelor’s degree (4-year college degree)
c) Associate’s degree (2-year degree from a
community college)
d) Vocational or technical certificate/diploma
after high school (such as cosmetology or
auto mechanics)

No

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

ST15

Q15

What is your mother currently doing?
(Please check only one box.)
Working full-time for pay

1

Working part-time for pay

2

Not working, but looking for a job

3

Other (e.g., home duties, retired)

4

9

ST16

Q16

What is your father’s main job?
(e.g., school teacher, cook, sales manager)
(If he is not working now, please tell us his last main job.)
Please write in the job title. ____________________________________________

Q17

What does your father do in his main job?
(e.g., teaches high school students, helps prepare meals in
a restaurant, manages a sales team)
Please use a sentence to describe the kind of work he does or did in
that job.
___________________________________________________

ST17

Q18

What is the highest level of schooling (not including
college) completed by your father?
If you are not sure how to answer this question, please ask the test
administrator for help.
(Please check only one box.)
He completed grade 12 (high school
diploma or GED)

1

He completed grade 9

2

He completed grade 6

3

He did not complete grade 6

4

10

ST18

Q19

Does your father have any of the following degrees,
certificates or diplomas?
If you are not sure which box to choose, please ask the test
administrator for help.
(Please check one box in each row.)
Yes

a) Master’s, doctoral, or professional degree
such as medicine or law
b) Bachelor’s degree (4-year college degree)
c) Associate’s degree (2-year degree from a
community college)
d) Vocational or technical certificate/diploma
after high school (such as cosmetology or
auto mechanics)

No

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

ST19

Q20

What is your father currently doing?
(Please check only one box.)
Working full-time for pay

1

Working part-time for pay

2

Not working, but looking for a job

3

Other (e.g., home duties, retired)

4

11

ST25

Q21

What language do you speak at home most of the time?
(Please check only one box.)
English

313

Spanish

156

Other language

859

12

SECTION C: ABOUT LEARNING MATHEMATICS
ST37

Q22

How confident do you feel about having to do the
following mathematics tasks?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
confident

a) Using a train schedule to figure out
how long it would take to get from
one place to another.
b) Calculating how much cheaper a
TV would be after a 30% discount.
c) Calculating how many square feet
of tile you need to cover a floor.
d) Understanding graphs presented in
newspapers.
e) Solving an equation like 3x+5= 17.
f) Finding the actual distance between
two places on a map with a
1:10,000 scale.
g) Solving an equation like
2(x+3) = (x + 3) (x - 3).
h) Calculating the gas mileage of a
car.

13

Confident

Not very
confident

Not at all
confident

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST44

Q23

You are a student in the following situation:
Each week, your mathematics teacher gives a short quiz.
Recently you performed poorly on these quizzes. Today you
are trying to figure out why.
How likely are you to have these thoughts or feelings in
this situation?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
likely

Likely

Slightly
likely

Not at
all
likely

a) I’m not very good at solving mathematics
problems.

1

2

3

4

b) I did not make a special effort to study this
material in the mathematics textbook.

1

2

3

4

c) My teacher did not explain the concepts
well this week.

1

2

3

4

d) This week I made bad guesses on the quiz.

1

2

3

4

e) Sometimes the course material is too hard.

1

2

3

4

f) I have not been studying enough lately.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

g) The teacher did not get students interested
in the material.
h) Sometimes I am just unlucky.

14

ST51

Q24

For each pair of items, please choose the one that best
describes you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
a) I do my best work in mathematics
when I try to do better than others.
b) I would like to be the best in my
class in mathematics.

c) When we work on a project in
mathematics, I think that it is a
good idea to combine the ideas of
all the students in a group.
d) In mathematics, I enjoy helping
others to work well in a group.

e) In mathematics, I always try to do
better than the other students in
my class.

15

1

I do my best work in
mathematics when I work
with other students.

2

1

In mathematics, I enjoy
working with other students
in groups.

2

1

I try very hard in
mathematics because I want
to do better on the exams
than the others.

2

1

I make a real effort in
mathematics because I want
to be one of the best.

2

1

In mathematics, I learn most
when I work with other
students in my class.

2

ST53

Q25

For each group of three items, please choose the item that
best describes your approach to mathematics.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
a) When I study for a
mathematics test, I
try to work out
what are the most
important parts to
learn.
b) When I study
mathematics, I try
to figure out which
concepts I still
have not
understood
properly.
c) When I study
mathematics, I try
to relate the work
to things I have
learned in other
subjects.
d) In order to
remember the
method for solving
a mathematics
problem, I go
through examples
again and again.

1

1

1

1

When I study for a
mathematics test, I
try to understand
new concepts by
relating them to
things I already
know.
When I study
mathematics, I think
of new ways to get
the answer.

When I study
mathematics, I start
by working out
exactly what I need
to learn.

I think about how
the mathematics I
have learned can be
used in everyday
life.

16

2

When I study for
a mathematics
test, I learn as
much as I can by
heart.

3

2

When I study
mathematics, I
make myself
check to see if I
remember the
work I have
already done.

3

2

When I study
mathematics, I go
over some
problems so often
that I feel as if I
could solve them
in my sleep.

3

2

When I cannot
understand
something in
mathematics, I
always search for
more information
to clarify the
problem.

3

ST59

Q26

What grade did you receive in the following subjects both
on your last report card and the last school you attended?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
Last report card

Last school you
attended

a) English

_______

_______

b) Mathematics

_______

_______

c) Science

_______

_______

ST60

Q27

On your last report card, how did your grade compare with
the passing grade in each subject area?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
(Please check only one box on each row.)
Above the
passing grade

At the passing
grade

Below the
passing grade

a) English

1

2

3

b) Mathematics

1

2

3

c) Science

1

2

3

17

ST62

Q28 Thinking about mathematical concepts: How familiar are you
with the following terms?
(Please check only one box in each row.)

Never
heard of it

Heard of
it once or
twice

Heard of
it a few
times

Know it
well,

Heard of
it often

understand

the
concept

a) Exponential Function

1

2

3

4

5

b) Divisor

1

2

3

4

5

c) Quadratic Function

1

2

3

4

5

d) Proper Number

1

2

3

4

5

e) Pythagorean Theorem

1

2

3

4

5

f) Linear Equation

1

2

3

4

5

g) Vectors

1

2

3

4

5

h) Complex Number

1

2

3

4

5

i) Rational Number

1

2

3

4

5

j) Radicals

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

n) Prime Number

1

2

3

4

5

o) Congruent Figure

1

2

3

4

5

p) Cosine

1

2

3

4

5

q) Arithmetic Mean

1

2

3

4

5

r) Area of a Circle

1

2

3

4

5

s) Probability

1

2

3

4

5

k) Subjunctive Scaling
l) Polygon
m) Declarative Fraction

18

The next four questions are about your experience with different
kinds of mathematics problems in school. You will see descriptions
of problems and gray colored boxes, each containing a mathematics
problem.
Please read each of the problems. You do NOT need to solve them.

19

ST73

Q29

In the box is a series of problems. Each requires you to
understand a problem written in text and perform the
appropriate calculations. Usually the problem talks about
practical situations, but the numbers and people and places
mentioned are made up. All the information you need is given.
Here are two examples:
1) Ann is two years older than Betty, and Betty is four times as old as Sam. When Betty
is 30, how old is Sam?
2) Mr. Smith bought a television and a bed. The television cost $625, but he got a 10%
discount. The bed cost $200. He paid $20 for delivery. How much money did Mr. Smith
spend?

We want to know about your experience with these types of
word problems in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered these types of
problems in your mathematics
lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered these types of
problems in the tests you have
taken in school?

20

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST74

Q30

Below are examples of another set of mathematical skills.
1) Solve 2x + 3 = 7.
2) Find the volume of a box with sides 3m, 4m and 5m.

We want to know about your experience with these types
of items in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered these types of
problems in your
mathematics lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered these types of
problems in the tests you
have taken in school?

21

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST75

Q31

In the next type of problems, you have to use mathematical
knowledge and draw conclusions. There is no practical
application provided. Here are two examples.
1) Here you need to use geometrical theorems:

Determine the height of the pyramid!

2) Here you have to know what a prime number is:
If n is any number: can (n+1)² be a prime number?

We want to know about your experience with these
types of problems in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you
encountered these types of
problems in your
mathematics lessons?
b) How often have you
encountered these types of
problems in the tests you
have taken in school?

23

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST76

Q32

In this type of problem, you have to apply suitable mathematical
knowledge to find a useful answer to a problem that arises in
everyday life or work. The data and information are about real
situations. Here are two examples.
Example 1:
A TV reporter says “This graph shows that there is a huge increase
in the number of robberies from 1998 to 1999.”

Do you consider the reporter’s statement to be a reasonable
interpretation of the graph? Give an explanation to support your
answer.

Example 2:
For years the relationship between a person’s recommended maximum
heart rate and the person’s age was described by the following formula:
Recommended maximum heart rate = 220 - age
Recent research showed that this formula should be modified slightly. The
new formula is as follows:
Recommended maximum heart rate = 208 – (0.7 × age)
From which age onwards does the recommended maximum heart rate
increase as a result of the introduction of the new formula? Show your
work.

We want to know about your experience with these types
of problems in school. Do not solve it!
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Frequently

a) How often have you encountered
these types of problems in your
mathematics lessons?
b) How often have you encountered
these types of problems in the
tests you have taken in school?

25

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

SECTION D: ABOUT YOUR PROBLEM SOLVING
EXPERIENCES
ST93

Q33

Thinking about yourself: How much like you are each of the
statements below?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
much
like me

Mostly
like me

Somewhat
like me

Not
much
like me

Not at
all like
me

a) When confronted with a
problem I give up easily.

1

2

3

4

5

b) I put little time and effort into
solving problems.

1

2

3

4

5

c) I put off difficult problems.

1

2

3

4

5

d) I remain interested in the tasks
that I start.

1

2

3

4

5

e) I stick with what I decide to
do.

1

2

3

4

5

f) I continue working on tasks
until everything is perfect.

1

2

3

4

5

g) When confronted with a
problem I do more than what is
expected of me.

1

2

3

4

5

h) My interests change quickly.

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

i) When confronted with a
problem I am easily distracted.
j) I remain calm under pressure.
k) Before I act, I plan.

26

ST94

Q34 Thinking about yourself: How much like you are each of the
statements below?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
much
like me

Mostly
like me

Somewhat
like me

Not
much
like me

Not at
all like
me

a) I am happy when I learn
something new.

1

2

3

4

5

b) I tend to analyze things.

1

2

3

4

5

c) I dislike learning.

1

2

3

4

5

d) I reason logically.

1

2

3

4

5

e) I can handle a lot of information.

1

2

3

4

5

f) I am quick to understand things.

1

2

3

4

5

g) I never challenge things.

1

2

3

4

5

h) I rarely look for a deeper meaning
in things.

1

2

3

4

5

i) I seek explanations for things.

1

2

3

4

5

j) I can easily link facts together.

1

2

3

4

5

k) I have difficulty imagining things.

1

2

3

4

5

l) I look forward to the opportunity
to learn and grow.

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5

m) I like to speculate about things.
n) I like to solve complex problems.
o) I come up with alternatives.

27

ST95

Q35

You have just bought a new cell phone. It works differently from
your old one. You want to find out how to use it.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I try to figure out how to use the
functions that I really need.
Anything else doesn’t matter.

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) I open up every menu and try
out all the options.

1

2

3

4

d) I check how many buttons work
the same way as my old phone.

1

2

3

4

e) I read the manual.

1

2

3

4

f) I search the Internet.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

b) I look for the games first.

g) I ask a friend for help.
h) I push a few buttons to see if
there are familiar menus.

28

ST96

Q36

Suppose that you have been sending text messages from your
mobile phone for several weeks. Today, however, you can’t send
text messages. You want to try to solve the problem.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I press every button possible to
find out what is wrong.

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) I read the manual.

1

2

3

4

d) I search the Internet.

1

2

3

4

e) I ask a friend for help.

1

2

3

4

b) I think about what might have
happened and what I can do to
solve the problem.

29

ST97

Q37

After 15 minutes, you haven’t found a solution to the problem.
What would you do next?
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I keep on trying hard to solve the
problem by myself.

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do this

1

2

3

4

b) I call the technical support line.

1

2

3

4

c) I ask my friends for help.

1

2

3

4

d) I search the Internet.

1

2

3

4

e) I get it repaired in a shop.

1

2

3

4

f) I buy another cell phone.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

g) I read the manual.
h) I put it away and decide to try again
later.

30

ST98

Q38

You want to buy a cable to connect your computer to your TV.
You don’t know which cable to buy.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do this

a) I go to the nearest electronics
store and ask the sales assistant.

1

2

3

4

b) I search the Internet for how to
connect computers to TVs.

1

2

3

4

c) I read the manual for my
computer or my TV.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

d) I ask a friend for help.
e) I go to the nearest electronics
store and buy the one that I think
is right.
f) I look at the sockets on my
computer and my TV to figure out
what to buy.

31

ST99

Q39

Suppose you know the right cable to connect your computer to
your TV. You want to find an electronics store that sells cheap
cables.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do
this

I would
definitely
not do
this

a) I go to several stores and compare
the advertised prices of the cables.

1

2

3

4

b) I search the Internet for the locations
of discount electronics stores.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) I go to the nearest electronics store
and ask the sales assistant for a good
price.
d) I ask friends for their advice on how
much I should pay.
e) I phone several electronics stores to
ask how much they charge for the
cable.

32

ST100

Q40

You try three discount electronics stores but none of them has
the cable in stock.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I try to find more discount electronic
stores.

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do
this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

d) I decide to try again another day.

1

2

3

4

e) I ask friends for their advice.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

b) I try to think of other ways I could get
a cable, or if I could use a different
type of connection.
c) I go to a very expensive store that has
the cable in stock.

f) I order a cable from a discount store,
with an estimated two weeks delivery
time.
g) I decide not to connect my computer
and my TV.
h) I phone several electronics stores to
ask how much they charge for the
cable.

33

ST101

Q41

You are planning a trip to the zoo with your brother. You don’t
know which route to take to get there.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I read the zoo brochure to see if it
says how to get there.
b) I study a map and figure out the best
route.
c) I leave it to my brother to worry
about how to get there.
d) I ask a friend who has been there
before for advice.
e) I know roughly where it is, so I
suggest we just start driving.
f) I search the Internet to get directions
from home to the zoo.
g) I use a GPS car navigation system to
find the quickest route.

34

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST102

Q42

Suppose that your brother is driving and you are using a map
to navigate to the zoo. When you think you are nearly there,
you realize that you are lost.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the
option that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I ask my brother for help.
b) I think about where we might
have made a wrong turn and
how to get back on course.
c) I study the map to try to figure
out where we are.
d) I tell my brother to turn around
and drive back until we find a
road I know.
e) The zoo should be close by, so I
suggest that we keep going to
see if we can find it.
f) We stop and ask a pedestrian for
help.

35

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST103

Q43

After 15 minutes, you have worked out where you are. You are a
long way from the zoo and there doesn’t seem to be an easy
way to get there.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I call my friend who has been
there before to ask for help.

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) I ask my brother what to do.

1

2

3

4

d) I suggest we find a gas station.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

b) I keep on trying hard to figure out
the best way to get there.

e) I give up and ask my brother to
drive us back home.
f) I look for another place we can
visit that is easy to get to from
where we are now.

36

ST104

Q44

You arrive at the train station. There is a ticket machine that you
have never used before. You want to buy a ticket.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I check how similar it is to other
ticket machines I have used.
b) I watch how somebody else buys
a ticket.
c) I carefully read the instructions
on the machine.
d) I try out all the buttons to see
what happens.
e) I ask someone for help.
f) I try to find a ticket office at the
station to buy a ticket.

37

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST105

Q45

Suppose that you have been buying train tickets from the ticket
machine for several weeks. Today, however, the ticket machine
doesn’t seem to work. You need to buy a ticket.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I press every button possible to find
out what is wrong.
b) I think about what might cause this
problem and what I can do to solve
it.
c) I carefully read the display and the
instructions on the machine.
d) I try to find another ticket machine.
e) I try to find a ticket office at the
station to buy a ticket.
f) I ask someone for help.
g) I phone the customer service line.
h) I hit the machine to try to get it to
work.

38

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST106

Q46

After 15 minutes, you haven’t been able to buy a ticket and the
train is due to arrive soon.
What would you do? For each suggestion, check the option
that best applies to you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
I would
definitely
do this

a) I try to find a ticket office at the
station to buy a ticket.

I would
probably
do this

I would
probably
not do
this

I would
definitely
not do
this

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

g) I travel some other way.

1

2

3

4

h) I give up and go home.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

b) I keep on trying hard to get the
machine to work.
c) I ask someone for help.
d) I carefully read the display and the
instructions on the machine.
e) I get on the train without a ticket.
f) I hit the machine to try to get it to
work.

i) I try to find another ticket machine.

39

The questions that follow have to do with how you make decisions.
You are given two to three choices. Your task is to decide between
the choices. Choose the box that matches your preference.
ST108

Q47

You are given two choices to make money: Which do you
prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
Accept $400

1

Flip a coin. If it comes up heads
you get $900; if it comes up tails
you get nothing.

2

ST112

Q48

You are given three choices to make money: Which do
you prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
To get $400 now

1

To get $500 in 1 month

2

To get $600 in 3 months

3

Thank you very much for your cooperation in
completing this questionnaire!

40

OECD Program for
International Student Assessment 2012
USA

Date of Test (Field Trial PISA 2012)
2011
Day

ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC
CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Month

Student Questionnaire Form C

Place Label Here

Student ID
Participation Status
English 313
U.S. participation in this study is sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), U.S. Department of Education. Your responses are protected by federal statute (20
U.S.C., § 9573). Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law. By law,
everyone working on this NCES survey is subject to a jail term of up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both if he or she willfully discloses ANY identifiable information about you.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid
OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0755. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 30 minutes per response,
including the time to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning
the accuracy of the time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving the form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have comments or
concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), National Center for Education
Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
O.M.B. No. 1850-0755, Approval Expires 11/30/2013

Project Consortium
 Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER)
 cApStAn Linguistic Quality Control (Belgium)
 Deutsches Institut für Internationale Pädagogische Forschung
(DIPF, Germany)
 Educational Testing Service (ETS, USA)
 Institutt for Lærerutdanning og Skoleutvikling (ILS, Norway)
 Leibniz - Institute for Science and Mathematics Education
(IPN, Germany)
 National Institute for Educational Policy Research (NIER, Japan)
 The Tao Initiative: CRP - Henri Tudor and Université de Luxembourg
EMACS (Luxembourg)
 Unité d'analyse des systèmes et des pratiques d'enseignement
(aSPe, Belgium)
 Westat (USA)

In this booklet you will find questions about:

You (Section A)

Your Family and Home (Section B)

Learning Mathematics (Section C)

Your Mathematics Experiences (Section D)

Your School (Section E)

Your Problem Solving Experiences (Section F)
Please read each question carefully and answer as accurately as you
can. In the test, you usually circled your answers. For this
questionnaire, you will normally answer by checking a box. For a
few questions, you will need to write a short answer.
If you make a mistake when checking a box, cross out your error and
check the correct box. If you make an error when writing an answer,
simply cross it out and write the correct answer next to it.
In this questionnaire, there are no right or wrong answers. Your
answers should be the ones that are right for you.
You may ask for help if you do not understand something or are not
sure how to answer a question.
All information (or responses) you provide may only be used for
statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in
identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by
law [Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (ESRA 2002),
20 U.S. Code, Section 9573].

2

SECTION A: ABOUT YOU
ST01

Q1

What grade are you in?
__________
grade

ST03

Q2

When were you born?
(Please write the month, day, and year you were born.)
______

____________

Month

19___

Day

Year

ST04

Q3

Are you female or male?
Female
1

Male
2

3

Q4

Which best describes you?
(Please check only one box.)

Q5

I am Hispanic or Latino.

1

I am not Hispanic or Latino.

2

Which of these categories best describes your race?
(Please check one or more boxes.)
White

1

Black or African American

1

Asian

1

American Indian or Alaska Native

1

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

1

4

Q6

Did you attend kindergarten?
No

1

Yes

2

ST07

Q7

Have you ever repeated a grade?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
No, never

Yes, once

Yes, twice or
more

a) In kindergarten

1

2

3

b) In grades 1-6

1

2

3

c) In grades 7-9

1

2

3

d) In grades 10-12

1

2

3

ST08

Q8

In the last two full weeks you were in school, how many
times did you arrive late for school?
(Please check only one box.)
None

1

One or two times

2

Three or four times

3

Five or more times

4

5

Q9

What is the highest grade or level of school you expect
to complete?
(Please check only one box.)
Less than high school

1

High school

2

Vocational or technical certificate (such as
cosmetology or auto mechanics)
Associate’s degree (2-year degree from a
community college)

3

4

Bachelor’s degree (4-year college degree)

5

Master’s degree

6

Doctoral or professional degree such as
medicine or law

6

7

SECTION B: ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND HOME
In this section you will be asked some questions about your family
and your home.
Some of the following questions are about your mother and father or
those persons who are like a mother or father to you — for example,
guardians, step-parents, foster parents, etc.
If you share your time with more than one set of parents or
guardians, please answer the following questions for those
parents/guardians you spend the most time with.

ST20

Q10

In what country were you and your parents born?
(Please check one box in each column.)
You

Mother

Father

United States*

01

01

01

Other country

02

02

02

*NOTE: the “United States” refers to the 50 states, District of Columbia, and U.S. military bases
abroad.

ST21

Q11

If you were NOT born in the United States, how old were
you when you arrived in the United States?
If you were less than 12 months old, please write zero (0).
If you were born in the United States please skip this question and
go to Q 12.
________ Years

7

ST25

Q12

What language do you speak at home most of the time?
(Please check only one box.)
English

313

Spanish

156

Other language

859

8

SECTION C: ABOUT LEARNING MATHEMATICS
ST38

Q13

If you had to choose between the following options, which
would you prefer?
(Please show how close your opinion is to the statements below by
checking one of the boxes numbered 1 to 7 in each row.)
a) I am interested
in mathematics
lessons more
than in any other
lessons.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

I am interested
in mathematics
lessons less
than in any
other lessons.

b) I would be
happy to drop
mathematics if I
could.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

I would be sad
to drop
mathematics if
I had to.

c) I enjoy reading
about
mathematics.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

I avoid reading
about
mathematics.

07

I plan to do as
little
mathematics as
possible during
my education.

07

I enjoy doing
mathematics
problems and
puzzles outside
mathematics
lessons.

07

I do not look
forward to my
mathematics
lessons.

d) I plan to do as
much
mathematics as
possible during
my education.
e) I avoid doing
mathematics
problems and
puzzles outside
mathematics
lessons.
f) I look forward
to my
mathematics
lessons.

01

01

01

02

02

02

03

03

03

9

04

04

04

05

05

05

06

06

06

ST29

Q14

Thinking about your views on mathematics: To what
extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) I enjoy reading about
mathematics.
b) Making an effort in mathematics
is worth it because it will help me
in the work that I want to do later
on.
c) I look forward to my mathematics
lessons.
d) I do mathematics because I enjoy
it.
e) Learning mathematics is
worthwhile for me because it will
improve my career prospects.
f) I am interested in the things I
learn in mathematics.
g) Mathematics is an important
subject for me because I need it
for what I want to study later on.
h) I will learn many things in
mathematics that will help me get
a job.

10

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST30

Q15

Please read the paragraph below. Then, indicate for each of
the explanations that follow how likely it is to apply to you,
given the situation.
You have been studying for a mathematics quiz and you are
getting tired. Your friends want you to stop studying and go to a
movie with them. Although you think it would be fun, you decide
to continue studying for the quiz instead of going with them.
How likely are the following reasons for YOU doing this in
the situation?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
likely

a) I think that studying hard for my
mathematics quiz is worth it because it
will help me in my future career.
b) I just think that studying mathematics is
fun.
c) I will not go out because my parents
expect me to do well on my mathematics
quiz.
d) I think that it is more important for me to
get better grades in mathematics than to
go out with my friends.

11

Likely

Unlikely

Very
unlikely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST31

Q16

Please read the paragraph below. Then, indicate for each
of the explanations that follow how likely it is to apply to
you, given the situation.
You have decided to read a book about the history of
mathematics in your free time that was not assigned in school.
How likely are the following reasons for YOU doing this in
the situation?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
likely

a) Reading about the history of
mathematics in my free time will
help me get better grades than the
other students in my class.
b) Reading about the history of
mathematics in my free time will
help me obtain the job I want.
c) Reading about the history of
mathematics in my free time is
enjoyable.
d) My parents want me to read about
the history of mathematics as much
as I can.

12

Likely

Unlikely

Very
unlikely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST32

Q17

Please read the paragraph below. Then, indicate for each
of the explanations that follow how likely it is to apply to
you, given the situation.
Your school has a mathematics club. In this club, students
compete to solve mathematics problems against other schools.
You have decided to join the club.
How likely are the following reasons that you have done
this?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
likely

a) My parents encouraged me to join
the club.

Likely

Unlikely

Very
unlikely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) I am interested in solving
mathematics problems.

1

2

3

4

d) It will give me practice mastering
the mathematics skills that I will
need in my future career.

1

2

3

4

b) I want to get the highest grade in all
of my mathematics classes.

13

ST33

Q18

Please read the sentence below. Then, indicate for each of
the explanations that follow how likely it is to apply to you,
given the situation.
You decide to pay closer attention in your mathematics class
than in your other classes.
How likely are the following reasons that you have done
this?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
likely

a) Paying attention in mathematics
will be useful when I have a career.
b) Paying attention in mathematics
will help me do better on exams
than the other students in my class.
c) I pay attention in mathematics class
because I enjoy it.
d) I pay attention in mathematics
because my parents will be
disappointed if I do not do well in
mathematics.

14

Likely

Unlikely

Very
unlikely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST34

Q19

Please read the paragraph below. Then, indicate for each
of the explanations that follow how likely it is to apply to
you, given the situation.
You have 25 hours a week to study for your classes. You
usually study 12 hours a week for your mathematics class,
almost the same as the total time spent studying science,
English, foreign languages, and history combined.
How likely are the following reasons that you do this?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
likely

a) I study more for mathematics
class because learning many
things in mathematics will help
me get a job.
b) I study more for mathematics
class because I want to get higher
grades than anyone else.
c) I study more for mathematics
class because mathematics is fun.
d) I study more for mathematics
class because my parents make
me.

15

Likely

Unlikely

Very
unlikely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST35

Q20

Thinking about how people important to you view
mathematics: How strongly do you agree with the following
statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) Most of my friends do well in
mathematics.
b) Most of my friends work hard at
mathematics.
c) My friends enjoy taking mathematics
tests.
d) My parents believe it’s important for me
to study mathematics.
e) My parents believe that mathematics is
important for my career.
f) My parents like mathematics.
g) My teachers believe it is important for
me to study mathematics.
h) My teachers think it is important for me
to do well in mathematics.
i) The people in my life whose opinions I
value are good at mathematics.
j) People whose opinions I value think
that mathematics is an important
subject.

16

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST36

Q21

Thinking about your friends: To what extent do you agree
with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) My friends enjoy reading about
mathematics.
b) My friends look forward to their
mathematics lessons.
c) My friends do mathematics because
they enjoy it.
d) My friends are interested in learning
mathematics.
e) My friends think making an effort in
mathematics is worth it because it
will help them later on.
f) My friends think mathematics will
help them with the subjects that they
want to study further on in school.
g) My friends believe mathematics is an
important subject for them to study.
h) My friends think that studying
mathematics will help them get a job.

17

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST37

Q22

How confident do you feel about having to do the
following mathematics tasks?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
confident

a) Using a train schedule to figure out
how long it would take to get from
one place to another.
b) Calculating how much cheaper a
TV would be after a 30% discount.
c) Calculating how many square feet
of tile you need to cover a floor.
d) Understanding graphs presented in
newspapers.
e) Solving an equation like 3x+5= 17.
f) Finding the actual distance between
two places on a map with a
1:10,000 scale.
g) Solving an equation like
2(x+3) = (x + 3) (x - 3).
h) Calculating the gas mileage of a
car.

18

Confident

Not very
confident

Not at all
confident

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST43

Q23

Thinking about your mathematics lessons: To what extent
do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) If I invest enough effort, I can
succeed in mathematics.

1

2

3

4

b) Whether or not I do well in
mathematics is completely up to me.

1

2

3

4

c) Family demands or other problems
prevent me from putting a lot of time
into my mathematics work.

1

2

3

4

d) If I had different teachers, I would try
harder in mathematics.

1

2

3

4

e) If I wanted to, I could perform well in
mathematics.

1

2

3

4

f) I perform poorly in mathematics
whether or not I study for my exams.

1

2

3

4

19

ST46

Q24

Thinking about the mathematics you do for school: To what
extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) I have my homework finished in
time for mathematics class.
b) I work hard on my mathematics
homework.
c) I am prepared for my mathematics
exams.
d) I study hard for mathematics quizzes.
e) I keep studying until I understand
mathematics material.
f) I pay attention in mathematics class.
g) I listen in mathematics class.
h) I avoid distractions when I am
studying mathematics.
i) I keep my mathematics work well
organized.

20

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST47

Q25

Thinking about your views on mathematics: To what extent
do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) I plan on studying hard in mathematics.

1

2

3

4

b) I intend to seek external help to improve
my mathematics skills.

1

2

3

4

c) I intend to get the best possible score on
all of my mathematics exams.

1

2

3

4

d) I plan to do all I can to get good grades
in mathematics.

1

2

3

4

e) I intend to become better than my
friends at mathematics.

1

2

3

4

f) I intend to take additional mathematics
courses.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

g) I plan on practicing mathematics
problems each night on my own.
h) I am willing to do more work in my
mathematics classes than is required.
i) I plan on taking as many mathematics
classes as I can during my education.
j) I am planning on pursuing a career that
involves mathematics.

21

ST49

Q26

How often do you do the following things inside and outside
school?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Always or
almost
always

a) I talk about mathematics problems
with my friends.

Often

Sometimes

Never or
rarely

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

d) I take part in mathematics
competitions.

1

2

3

4

e) I do mathematics more than 2 hours
a day outside of school.

1

2

3

4

f) I play chess.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

b) I help my friends with mathematics.
c) I do mathematics as an
extracurricular activity.

g) I program computers.
h) I do mathematics even though I do
not like it.
i) I participate in a mathematics club.

22

ST59

Q27

What grade did you receive in the following subjects both
on your last report card and the last school you attended?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
Last report card

Last school you
attended

a) English

_______

_______

b) Mathematics

_______

_______

c) Science

_______

_______

ST60

Q28

On your last report card, how did your grade compare with
the passing grade in each subject area?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
(Please check only one box on each row.)
Above the
passing grade

At the passing
grade

Below the
passing grade

a) English

1

2

3

b) Mathematics

1

2

3

c) Science

1

2

3

23

ST40

Q29

To what extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Neither
agree
nor
disagree

Strongly
agree

a) I am interested in
mathematics lessons
less than in any other
lessons.

Strongly
disagree

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

c) I avoid reading about
mathematics.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

d) I plan to do as little
mathematics as
possible during my
education.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

e) I enjoy doing
mathematics
problems and
puzzles outside
mathematics lessons.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

b) I would be sad to
drop mathematics if
I had to.

f) I do not look
forward to my
mathematics lessons.

24

SECTION D: ABOUT YOUR MATHEMATICS
EXPERIENCES
ST77

Q30 How often do these things happen in your mathematics
classes?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Every class

Most
classes

Some
classes

Never or
hardly ever

a) The teacher shows an interest in
every student’s learning.

1

2

3

4

b) The teacher gives extra help when
students need it.

1

2

3

4

c) Students work from books and
other printed material.

1

2

3

4

d) The teacher helps students with
their learning.

1

2

3

4

e) The teacher continues teaching
until the students understand.

1

2

3

4

f) The teacher gives students an
opportunity to express opinions.

1

2

3

4

25

ST78

Q31

How often do these things happen with your mathematics
homework?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Always or
almost
always

Often

Sometimes

Never

a) My mathematics teacher discusses
mistakes with us to help us learn
from our mistakes.

1

2

3

4

b) My mathematics teacher gives
feedback on how we solve our
homework problems.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) My mathematics teacher rewards
finding “new” approaches to
solving problems – approaches that
we have to find on our own and that
have not been explicitly taught.
d) My mathematics teacher gives
homework problems that require us
to go beyond what has been
explicitly taught in class.
e) My mathematics teacher rewards
the effort that we put into our
homework regardless of whether
we get the right answer.

26

ST80

Q32

Thinking about the mathematics teacher that taught your
last mathematics class: To what extent do you agree with
the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) The teacher asks questions that
make us reflect on the problem.

1

2

3

4

b) The teacher gives tasks that only
involve calculations.

1

2

3

4

c) The teacher gives problems with
definite solutions.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

d) The teacher gives problems that
require us to think about them for
an extended time.
e) The teacher asks us to decide on
our own procedures for solving
complex problems.
f) The teacher presents problems for
which there is no immediately
obvious method of solution.
g) The teacher presents problems in
different contexts so that students
know whether they have
understood the concepts.
h) The teacher helps us to learn from
mistakes we have made.
i) The teacher asks us to explain how
we have solved a problem.
j) The teacher presents problems that
require students to apply what they
have learned to new contexts.
k) The teacher gives problems that can
be solved in several different ways.
27

ST82

Q33

Below you will find descriptions of three mathematics
teachers. Read each of the descriptions of these teachers.
Then let us know to what extent you agree with the final
statement.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) Ms. Anderson assigns mathematics
homework every other day. She always
gets the answers back to students before
examinations. Ms. Anderson is
concerned about her students’
learning.

1

2

3

4

b) Mr. Crawford assigns mathematics
homework once a week. He always gets
the answers back to students before
examinations. Mr. Crawford is
concerned about his students’
learning.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

c) Ms. Dalton assigns mathematics
homework once a week. She never gets
the answers back to students before
examinations. Ms. Dalton is concerned
about her students’ learning.

28

ST83

Q34

Thinking about the mathematics teacher who taught your last
mathematics class: To what extent do you agree with the
following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) My teacher lets students know they need to
work hard.

1

2

3

4

b) My teacher provides extra help when
needed.

1

2

3

4

c) My teacher helps students with their
learning.

1

2

3

4

d) My teacher gives students the opportunity
to express opinions.

1

2

3

4

29

SECTION E: ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL
ST86

Q35

Thinking about the teachers at your school: To what extent
do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) Students get along well with most
teachers.

1

2

3

4

b) Most teachers are interested in
students’ well-being.

1

2

3

4

c) Most of my teachers really listen
to what I have to say.

1

2

3

4

d) If I need extra help, I will receive
it from my teachers.

1

2

3

4

e) Most of my teachers treat me
fairly.

1

2

3

4

30

ST88

Q36

Thinking about what you have learned in school: To what
extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) School has done little to prepare me for
adult life when I leave school.

1

2

3

4

b) School has been a waste of time.

1

2

3

4

c) School helped give me confidence to
make decisions.

1

2

3

4

d) School has taught me things which
could be useful in a job.

1

2

3

4

ST92

Q37

Thinking about your school: To what extent do you agree
with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) I intend to study every night for the
remainder of the school year.

1

2

3

4

b) I will turn in all of my homework on
time for the remainder of the school
year.

1

2

3

4

c) I intend to set timelines to get
projects done.

1

2

3

4

d) I plan on studying harder in school
this year than I did last year.

1

2

3

4

e) I will arrive on time to my classes.

1

2

3

4

f) I intend to work hard on every project
to make sure everything is done right.

1

2

3

4

31

SECTION F: ABOUT YOUR PROBLEM SOLVING
EXPERIENCES
The questions that follow have to do with how you make decisions.
You are given two to three choices. Your task is to decide between
the choices. Choose the box that matches your preference.
ST109

Q38

You are given two choices to make money: Which do you
prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
Accept $400

1

Flip a coin. If it comes up heads
you get $600; if it comes up tails
you get nothing.

2

ST113

Q39

You are given three choices to make money: Which do
you prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
To get $400 now

1

To get $600 in 1 month

2

To get $1,800 in 3 months

3

Thank you very much for your cooperation in
completing this questionnaire!
32

OECD Program for
International Student Assessment 2012
USA

Date of Test (Field Trial PISA 2012)
2011
Day

ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC
CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Month

Student Questionnaire Form D

Place Label Here

Student ID
Participation Status
English 313
U.S. participation in this study is sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), U.S. Department of Education. Your responses are protected by federal statute (20
U.S.C., § 9573). Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law. By law,
everyone working on this NCES survey is subject to a jail term of up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both if he or she willfully discloses ANY identifiable information about you.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid
OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0755. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 30 minutes per response,
including the time to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning
the accuracy of the time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving the form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have comments or
concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), National Center for Education
Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
O.M.B. No. 1850-0755, Approval Expires 11/30/2013

Project Consortium
 Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER)
 cApStAn Linguistic Quality Control (Belgium)
 Deutsches Institut für Internationale Pädagogische Forschung
(DIPF, Germany)
 Educational Testing Service (ETS, USA)
 Institutt for Lærerutdanning og Skoleutvikling (ILS, Norway)
 Leibniz - Institute for Science and Mathematics Education
(IPN, Germany)
 National Institute for Educational Policy Research (NIER, Japan)
 The Tao Initiative: CRP - Henri Tudor and Université de Luxembourg
EMACS (Luxembourg)
 Unité d'analyse des systèmes et des pratiques d'enseignement
(aSPe, Belgium)
 Westat (USA)

In this booklet you will find questions about:

You (Section A)

Your Family and Home (Section B)

Learning Mathematics (Section C)

Your Mathematics Experiences (Section D)

Your School (Section E)

Your Problem Solving Experiences (Section F)
Please read each question carefully and answer as accurately as you
can. In the test, you usually circled your answers. For this
questionnaire, you will normally answer by checking a box. For a
few questions, you will need to write a short answer.
If you make a mistake when checking a box, cross out your error and
check the correct box. If you make an error when writing an answer,
simply cross it out and write the correct answer next to it.
In this questionnaire, there are no right or wrong answers. Your
answers should be the ones that are right for you.
You may ask for help if you do not understand something or are not
sure how to answer a question.
All information (or responses) you provide may only be used for
statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in
identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by
law [Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (ESRA 2002),
20 U.S. Code, Section 9573].

2

SECTION A: ABOUT YOU
ST01

Q1

What grade are you in?
__________
grade
ST03

Q2

When were you born?
(Please write the month, day, and year you were born.)
______

____________

Month

19___

Day

Year

ST04

Q3

Are you female or male?
Female
1

Male
2

3

Q4

Which best describes you?
(Please check only one box.)

Q5

I am Hispanic or Latino.

1

I am not Hispanic or Latino.

2

Which of these categories best describes your race?
(Please check one or more boxes.)
White

1

Black or African American

1

Asian

1

American Indian or Alaska Native

1

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

1

4

ST05

Q6

Q7

Did you attend pre-school?
No

1

Yes, for one year or less

2

Yes, for more than one year

3

Did you attend kindergarten?
No

1

Yes

2

ST06

Q8

How old were you when you started first grade?
Years

ST07

Q9

Have you ever repeated a grade?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
No, never

Yes, once

Yes, twice or
more

a) In kindergarten

1

2

3

b) In grades 1-6

1

2

3

c) In grades 7-9

1

2

3

d) In grades 10-12

1

2

3

5

ST08

Q10

In the last two full weeks you were in school, how many
times did you arrive late for school?
(Please check only one box.)
None

1

One or two times

2

Three or four times

3

Five or more times

4

ST09

Q11

In the last two full weeks of school, how many times did
you skip school?
(Please check only one box.)
None

1

One or two times

2

Three or four times

3

Five or more times

4

ST10

Q12

In the last two full weeks of school, how many times did
you miss school because of illness or other
circumstances?
(Please check only one box.)
None

1

One or two times

2

Three or four times

3

Five or more times

4

6

Q13

What is the highest grade or level of school you expect
to complete?
(Please check only one box.)
Less than high school

1

High school

2

Vocational or technical certificate (such as
cosmetology or auto mechanics)
Associate’s degree (2-year degree from a
community college)

3

4

Bachelor’s degree (4-year college degree)

5

Master’s degree

6

Doctoral or professional degree such as
medicine or law

7

7

SECTION B: ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND HOME
In this section you will be asked some questions about your family
and your home.
Some of the following questions are about your mother and father or
those persons who are like a mother or father to you — for example,
guardians, step-parents, foster parents, etc.
If you share your time with more than one set of parents or
guardians, please answer the following questions for those
parents/guardians you spend the most time with.

ST20

Q14

In what country were you and your parents born?
(Please check one box in each column.)
You

Mother

Father

United States*

01

01

01

Other country

02

02

02

*NOTE: the “United States” refers to the 50 states, District of Columbia, and U.S. military bases
abroad.

ST21

Q15

If you were NOT born in the United States how old were
you when you arrived in the United States?
If you were less than 12 months old, please write zero (0).
If you were born in the United States please skip this question and
go to Q16.
________ Years

8

ST25

Q16

What language do you speak at home most of the time?
(Please check only one box.)
English

313

Spanish

156

Other language

859

9

SECTION C: ABOUT LEARNING MATHEMATICS
ST37

Q17

How confident do you feel about having to do the
following mathematics tasks?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Very
confident

a) Using a train schedule to figure out
how long it would take to get from
one place to another.
b) Calculating how much cheaper a
TV would be after a 30% discount.
c) Calculating how many square feet
of tile you need to cover a floor.
d) Understanding graphs presented in
newspapers.
e) Solving an equation like 3x+5= 17.
f) Finding the actual distance between
two places on a map with a
1:10,000 scale.
g) Solving an equation like
2(x+3) = (x + 3) (x - 3).
h) Calculating the gas mileage of a
car.

10

Confident

Not very
confident

Not at all
confident

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST41

Q18

Here we briefly describe some students. Please read each
description and check the box on each line that shows how
much each student is like you.

 

(Please check only one box in each row.)

 

 

Very
much
like
me

Like
me

Somewhat
like
me

A little
like
me

Not
like
me

Not
like
me at
all

a) This student is interested in
mathematics lessons more than
in any other lessons.

1

2

3

4

5

6

b) This student would be happy to
drop mathematics if he or she
could.

1

2

3

4

5

6

c) This student enjoys reading
about mathematics.

1

2

3

4

5

6

d) This student plans to do as
much mathematics as possible
during his or her education.

1

2

3

4

5

6

e) This student avoids doing
mathematics problems and
puzzles outside mathematics
lessons.

1

2

3

4

5

6

f) This student looks forward to
his or her mathematics lessons.

1

2

3

4

5

6

11

ST42

Q19

Thinking about studying mathematics: To what extent do
you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) I often worry that it will be difficult for
me in mathematics classes
b) I am just not good at mathematics.
c) I get very tense when I have to do
mathematics homework.
d) I get good grades in mathematics.
e) I get very nervous doing mathematics
problems.
f) I learn mathematics quickly.
g) I have always believed that mathematics
is one of my best subjects.
h) I feel helpless when doing a
mathematics problem.
i) In my mathematics class, I understand
even the most difficult work.
j) I worry that I will get poor grades in
mathematics.

12

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST48

Q20

For each pair of statements, please choose the item that best
describes you.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
a) I intend to take additional
mathematics courses after school
finishes.

1

I intend to take additional
English courses after school
finishes.

2

b) I plan on majoring in a subject in
college that requires mathematics
skills.

1

I plan on majoring in a subject
in college that requires science
skills.

2

1

I am willing to study harder in
my English classes than is
required.

2

1

I plan on taking as many
science classes as I can during
my education.

2

1

I am planning on pursuing a
career that involves a lot of
science.

2

c) I am willing to study harder in my
mathematics classes than is
required.
d) I plan on taking as many
mathematics classes as I can during
my education.
e) I am planning on pursuing a career
that involves a lot of mathematics.

13

ST50

Q21

Thinking about your mathematics classes: To what extent do
you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) I would like to be the best in my class
in mathematics.

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

b) In mathematics, I enjoy working with
other students in groups.

1

2

3

4

c) I try very hard in mathematics because
I want to do better on the exams than
the others.

1

2

3

4

d) When we work on a project in
mathematics, I think that it is a good
idea to combine the ideas of all the
students in a group.

1

2

3

4

e) I make a real effort in mathematics
because I want to be one of the best.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

f) I do my best work in mathematics
when I work with other students.
g) In mathematics, I always try to do
better than the other students in my
class.
h) In mathematics, I enjoy helping others
to work well in a group.
i) In mathematics, I learn most when I
work with other students in my class.
j)

I do my best work in mathematics
when I try to do better than others.

14

ST52

Q22

There are different ways of studying mathematics: To what
extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) When I study for a mathematics test, I
try to figure out what are the most
important parts to learn.

1

2

3

4

b) When I am solving mathematics
problems, I often think of new ways to
get the answer.

1

2

3

4

c) When I study mathematics, I make
myself check to see if I remember the
work I have already done.

1

2

3

4

d) When I study mathematics, I try to
figure out which concepts I still have
not understood properly.

1

2

3

4

e) I think about how the mathematics I
have learned can be used in everyday

1

2

3

4

f) I go over some problems in
mathematics so often that I feel as if I
could solve them in my sleep.

1

2

3

4

g) When I study for mathematics, I learn
as much as I can by heart.

1

2

3

4

h) I try to understand new concepts in
mathematics by relating them to things I
already know.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

i) In order to remember the method for
solving a mathematics problem, I go
through examples again and again.
j) When I cannot understand something in
mathematics, I always search for more
information to clarify the problem.

15

Strongly
agree

k) When I am solving a mathematics
problem, I often think about how the
solution might be applied to other
interesting questions.
l) When I study mathematics, I start by
working out exactly what I need to
learn.
m) To learn mathematics, I try to remember
every step in a procedure.
n) When learning mathematics, I try to
relate the work to things I have learned
in other subjects.

16

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST54

Q23

Thinking about your views on mathematics: To what extent
do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) I try to use test-taking strategies that
have worked for me in the past when I
take a mathematics test.
b) After I solve a mathematics test
question, I ask myself if there was an
easier way to do it.
c) I pace myself in order to have enough
time on mathematics tests.
d) I consciously focus my attention on
important information in the questions
on mathematics tests.
e) I read the instructions carefully before
I begin a mathematics test.
f) I think of several ways to solve a
mathematics problem and choose the
best one when taking a mathematics
test.
g) When I get confused during a
mathematics test, I stop and reread the
question.
h) I know what kind of information is
most important in solving a
mathematics test question.
i) I use helpful strategies automatically
during a mathematics test.

17

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST58

Q24 Thinking only about mathematics: On average, how
many hours do you spend each week on the following?
When answering, include time spent on the weekend too.
a) Homework or other material assigned by your
teachers
b) Out of the time spent in (a), how many hours do
you work on your homework with somebody
overlooking and providing help if necessary
(“guided homework”), either at school or
elsewhere?

_____ hours per week

_____ hours per week

c) Work with a personal tutor (whether paid or not) _____ hours per week
d) Attend out of school classes organized by a
commercial company and paid for by your
parents
e) Study with a parent or other family member

_____ hours per week

_____ hours per week

f) Practice content from school lessons by working
on a computer (e.g., practice mathematics using
_____ hours per week
online software)

18

ST59

Q25

What grade did you receive in the following subjects both
on your last report card and the last school you attended?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
Last report card

Last school you
attended

a) English

_______

_______

b) Mathematics

_______

_______

c) Science

_______

_______

ST60

Q26

On your last report card, how did your grade compare with
the passing grade in each subject area?
For each subject consider the specific course in that subject you were
taking. If taking more than one course in a subject, include only your
highest grade.
(Please check only one box on each row.)
Above the
passing grade

At the passing
grade

Below the
passing grade

a) English

1

2

3

b) Mathematics

1

2

3

c) Science

1

2

3

19

SECTION D: ABOUT YOUR MATHEMATICS
EXPERIENCES
ST79

Q27

Thinking about the mathematics teacher that taught your
last mathematics class: How often do these things
happen?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Always or
almost
always

a) The teacher sets clear goals for
our learning.

Often

Sometimes

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

d) The teacher assigns projects that
require at least one week to
complete.

1

2

3

4

e) The teacher tells me about how
well I am doing in my
mathematics class.

1

2

3

4

f) The teacher asks questions to
check whether we have
understood what was taught.

1

2

3

4

g) The teacher has us work in small
groups to come up with joint
solutions to a problem or task.

1

2

3

4

h) At the beginning of a lesson, the
teacher presents a short
summary of the previous lesson.

1

2

3

4

b) The teacher asks me or my
classmates to present our
thinking or reasoning at some
length.
c) The teacher gives different work
to classmates that have
difficulties learning and/or to
those who can advance faster.

20

Always or
almost
always

i) The teacher reviews the
homework that we prepare.
j) The teacher asks us to help plan
classroom activities or topics.
k) The teacher gives me feedback
on my strengths and weaknesses
in mathematics.
l) The teacher tells us what is
expected of us when we get a
test, quiz, or assignment.
m) The teacher checks our
workbooks.
n) The teacher has us argue about
different approaches to solving a
mathematics problem.
o) The teacher tells us what we
have to learn.
p) The teacher gives a test or quiz
to assess student learning.
q) The teacher tells me what I need
to do to become better in
mathematics.
r) The teacher has us solve realistic
problems from daily life.

21

Often

Sometimes

Never

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST84

Q28

Below you will find descriptions of three mathematics
teachers. Read each of the descriptions of these teachers.
Then let us know to what extent you agree with the final
statement.
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) The students in Ms. Franklin’s class
frequently interrupt her lessons. She is
always in her classroom five minutes
before the class starts. Ms. Franklin is
in control of her classroom.
b) The students in Ms. Harris’ class are
calm and orderly. She is always in her
classroom at the start of class. Ms.
Harris is in control of her classroom.
c) The students in Mr. Reynolds’ class
frequently interrupt his lessons. As a
result, he often arrives five minutes late
to his classroom. Mr. Reynolds is in
control of his classroom.

22

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

ST85

Q29

Thinking about the mathematics teacher who taught your last
mathematics class: To what extent do you agree with the
following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) My teacher gets students to listen to him
or her.

1

2

3

4

b) My teacher keeps the class orderly.

1

2

3

4

c) My teacher starts the class period on time.

1

2

3

4

d) The teacher has to wait a long time for
students to quiet down.

1

2

3

4

23

SECTION E: ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL
ST87

Q30

Thinking about your school: To what extent do you agree
with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

a) I feel like an outsider (or left out of
things) at school.

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

1

2

3

4

b) I make friends easily at school.

1

2

3

4

c) I feel like I belong at school.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

e) Other students seem to like me.

1

2

3

4

f) I feel lonely at school.

1

2

3

4

g) I feel happy at school.

1

2

3

4

h) Things are ideal in my school.

1

2

3

4

i) I am satisfied with my school.

1

2

3

4

d) I feel awkward and out of place in
my school.

24

ST89

Q31

Thinking about your school: To what extent do you agree
with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) It is good for me to pass my classes.

1

2

3

4

b) Trying hard in school will help me
get a good job.

1

2

3

4

c) Trying hard in school will help me
get into a good college.

1

2

3

4

d) I enjoy receiving good grades.

1

2

3

4

e) Trying hard in school is important.

1

2

3

4

f) Trying hard in school will not do any
good.

1

2

3

4

25

ST90

Q32 Thinking about how others view your school: To what
extent do you agree with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) My parents believe that it is
beneficial for me to try as hard
as I can to do well in school
this year.

1

2

3

4

b) My parents believe that it is
good for me to pass my classes.

1

2

3

4

c) My friends enjoy studying for
their classes.

1

2

3

4

d) My friends try to do better than
each other in school.

1

2

3

4

e) My friends think that trying
hard in school will not do any
good.

1

2

3

4

f) My parents think I will get
better grades if I try harder in
school.

1

2

3

4

26

ST91

Q33

Thinking about your school: To what extent do you agree
with the following statements?
(Please check only one box in each row.)
Strongly
agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly
disagree

a) If I invest enough effort I can
succeed in school.

1

2

3

4

b) It is completely my choice whether
or not I do well in school.

1

2

3

4

c) Family demands or other problems
prevent me from putting a lot of
time into my school work.

1

2

3

4

d) If I had different teachers, I would
try harder in school.

1

2

3

4

e) If I wanted to I could perform well
in school.

1

2

3

4

f) I perform poorly in school whether
or not I study for my exams.

1

2

3

4

27

SECTION F: ABOUT YOUR PROBLEM SOLVING
EXPERIENCES
The questions that follow have to do with how you make decisions.
You are given two to three choices. Your task is to decide between
the choices. Choose the box that matches your preference.
ST110

Q34

You are given two choices to make money: Which do you
prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
Accept $400

1

Flip a coin. If it comes up heads
you get $900; if it comes up tails
you get nothing.

2

ST114

Q35

You are given three choices to make money: Which do
you prefer?
(Please check only one box.)
To get $400 now

1

To get $600 in 3 months

2

To get $1,800 in 6 months

3

Thank you very much for your cooperation in
completing this questionnaire!
28

FINANCIAL LITERACY QUESTIONS
SET 1

Questions about your experience with financial issues
FQ001Q01

Q1 Have you ever learned how to manage money in a class?
(Please check one box in each row.)

Yes

No

a) At school, in a subject or course specifically about
managing money

1

2

b) At school as part of another subject or class

1

2

c) In an activity outside school

1

2

FQ001Q02

Q2 How often do you discuss money (e.g. talk about
spending, saving, banking, investment) with these
people?
(Please check one box in each row.)

Never or
hardly
ever

Once or
twice a
month

Once or
twice a
week

Almost
every day

a) Parents/guardians or other adult
relations

1

2

3

4

b) Brothers or sisters (including stepbrothers and sisters)

1

2

3

4

c) Friends

1

2

3

4

Q3 If you don’t have enough money to buy something you
really want (e.g. an item of clothing, sports equipment),
what are you most likely to do?

FQ001Q11

(Please check only one box.)
a) Buy it with money that really should be used for something else

1

b) Try to borrow money from a family member

2

c) Try to borrow money from a friend

3

d) Save up to buy it

4

e) Not buy it

5

FINANCIAL LITERACY QUESTIONS
SET 2

Questions about your experience with financial issues
FQ001Q04

Q1 Do you get money from any of these sources?
(Please check one box in each row.)

Yes

No

a) My parents/guardians, as a regular allowance or spending money

1

2

b) My parents/guardians, from time to time

1

2

c) A regular part-time job outside school hours

1

2

d) A job during school vacations or a summer job

1

2

e) Working in a family business

1

2

f) Occasional jobs outside home (e.g. babysitting or gardening)

1

2

g) Gifts of money from friends or relatives

1

2

h) Selling things (e.g. at local markets , on eBay, or Craig’s List)

1

2

Q2 Which of these statements about saving money best applies
to you?

FQ001Q10

(Please check only one box.)
a) I save the same amount of money each week or month

1

b) I save some money each week or month, but the amount varies

2

c) I save money only when I have some to spare

3

d) I save money only when I want to buy something

4

e) I do not save any money

5

f) I have no money so I do not save

6

FQ001Q06

Q3 Do you have any of the following?
(Please check one box in each row.)

I don’t
know
what it is

Yes

No

1

2

3

b) Pre-paid debit card

1

2

3

c) A way of saving money at home (e.g. a piggy bank)

1

2

3

a) Bank account


File Typeapplication/pdf
AuthorDavid Kastberg
File Modified2011-06-14
File Created2011-06-03

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