FAQs about the 6-8th Grade Math Pathways

About the Upper School Math Courses
Posted on 03/11/2015

Thank you to all who have contacted us with questions about the structure and design of our Upper School Math Pathways. We are in the process of developing a comprehensive brochure outlining our math curriculum and math pathways for students in Grades 6-8. In the meantime, we hope the following FAQs will be helpful to you.

1. What do you mean by “Math Pathways?”

2. Why are there two math pathways?
 

3. How are decisions made about placement into Accelerated Math vs. Grade Level Math?

4. Can students who take Grade Level Math for 7th Grade move into Accelerated Math for 8th Grade?

5. Will there be a limit on the number of students assigned to Accelerated vs. Grade Level math? 

6. What about students who are struggling in math, need to catch up, or who would just like to further strengthen their math skills?

7. My child needs a full-day program, like you would find at a youth program or summer camp. How can my child participate in one of your morning programs?

8. Can students with IEPs or 504 Plans (students with disabilities) take Accelerated Math?

9. Can a student who takes Grade Level Math complete higher math such as Statistics or Calculus during high school?


10. Is it better to take Accelerated Math than Grade Level Math?

More Info...



1. What do you mean by “Math Pathways?”

We believe that all students can be successful in math, and recognize that the path students take to accomplish their educational goals will be different.  We therefore offer students two course sequences, or pathways, to reflect the different learning needs of our students:
  • Grade Level Math Pathway: The majority of students will take “Grade Level” math courses. Cambridge’s grade level math curriculum is rigorous, and aligned with both state and national standards for what quality math education should look like. Students who choose the Grade Level pathway will take 7th grade math in 7th grade, and 8th grade math in 8th grade.
  • Accelerated Math Pathway: Some students thrive on a faster pace, and love math so much, they can’t wait to learn more! Whether they specifically want to take algebra in 8th grade, or are just looking for more challenge, the Accelerated Math Pathway allows them to complete 3 grade levels of math over 2 years. Students who choose the Accelerated Math pathway take 7th grade math, 8th grade math, and Algebra 1 (typically a 9th grade class) in two years. Return to top ^

2. Why are there two math pathways?
Our goal is that all students consider challenging themselves in math, and we offer flexible options for students to build up their math skills, regardless of what their personal math goals might be. Students may choose which pathway will best suit their learning needs, and may even move between pathways with full support from their math teachers.

In the past, CPS offered only one math course per grade for grades JK-8, and then Algebra 1 would be offered to them in 9th grade. These grade-level classes were aligned to curriculum standards set by the state. However, some students and families chose to study algebra on their own in order to test into Geometry in 9th grade and continue with more advanced math study during grades 11-12. This grassroots effort led to the recognition that students in 8th grade had diverse learning needs that would be better served by splitting the math program into two different pathways.

The two pathways can be thought of as two different routes to reach the same destination. One route has more opportunities to stop and make sure you're comfortable with the trip and where you're going. The other is a highway that will get you there faster, but you might miss some of the sights along the way. Both math pathways lead to algebra and beyond -- it's only a question of how soon a student will get there.

We are hopeful that when students and families discuss these two pathways, it will open the door to further self-awareness about where each student has strengths, motivation, interests, and areas for growth. If in doubt, we invite all students to challenge themselves. Return to top ^

3. How are decisions made about placement into Accelerated Math vs. Grade Level Math?
At the end of 6th grade, your family will receive a letter recommending your student for either Grade Level Math or Accelerated Math. These recommendations will be based on the following criteria:

  1. CPS District 6th Grade Math Assessments
  2. 5th Grade Math MCAS Scores
  3. The observations and recommendations of 6th grade math teachers
  4. A norm-referenced assessment called  the “Iowa Algebra Readiness Test”
Each of these factors will be weighed in making our recommendations. Sometimes, it will be clear which pathway would be best. In cases where it’s more difficult to make a determination, teachers will speak directly with families and students to determine which pathway would be best.

At this time, we have not decided whether to weigh all four criteria equally, or whether one or another factor is a better indicator of the student’s readiness for accelerated math. The final rubric for making recommendations will be based on a review of what factors seem most linked to student success in 8th Grade Accelerated Math, among students currently enrolled in the class. We will share the final weighted criteria when this analysis is complete. Return to top ^


4. Can students who take Grade Level Math for 7th Grade move into Accelerated Math for 8th Grade?
Yes. We are happy to support students wishing to move from the Grade Level program to the Accelerated program. We will notify 7th graders and their Families that this is an option during the spring and provide details of the entrance criteria to take 8th Grade Accelerated Math. Still in development, entrance criteria will include:

  1. CPS District 7th Grade Math Assessments
  2. 6th Grade Math MCAS Scores
  3. The observations and recommendations of 7th grade math teachers
  4. The “Iowa Algebra Readiness Test." This test will only be given to 7th graders who request the opportunity to switch into Accelerated Math for 8th grade.

In addition, students must learn the math content that is included in Accelerated Math, which is not part of Grade Level math. There are two ways they can demonstrate mastery of this content:

  • By successfully completing the Summer Bridge Program, which will be offered between July 6 – August 14, 2015. This free morning math program will take place Monday-Friday from 8:30 - 11:30AM.
  • Or, by successfully completing an entrance exam that covers the content included in the Summer Bridge program.

If a student does not fully meet the entrance criteria but wishes to pursue the Summer Bridge Program, they are welcome to sign up for the class. A determination will be made on a case-by-case basis at the end of the Bridge Program as to whether the student's performance in the Summer Bridge Program is strong enough to be accepted into the program.
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5. Will there be a limit on the number of students assigned to Accelerated vs. Grade Level math? 
No, we are determined to ensure that all students who qualify for Accelerated Math will be able to take it. We will assign teacher and classroom resources based on the objective data that determines the appropriate placement for students. Return to top ^

6. What about students who are struggling in math, need to catch up, or who would just like to further strengthen their math skills?
We’re pleased to offer two free summer school programs for students who are interested in building up their math skills:

  • Summer Math 180 is a program for students who are struggling with math. Students will be invited to participate in this free summer program if they scored in the Needs Improvement or Warning range on the math MCAS. This class will be offered July 27th-August 14th, and is open to students who will enter 6th or 7th Grade in September 2015.
  • Summer AMP Prep is an opportunity to raise your math skills, especially if you’re interested in the Accelerated Math Pathway. Students who will be entering 6th or 7th grade may sign up for this free morning math class, which will focus on problem solving. Research shows that the greatest factor influencing later success in math and science is strong problem-solving skills. Whether or not a student goes on to take Accelerated Math, this class will help build students’ problem solving skills. Return to top ^

7. My child needs a full-day program, like you would find at a youth program or summer camp. How can my child participate in one of your morning programs?
Summer scheduling is always a challenge, and we wish that we had funding in place to offer a full-day program. However, we are currently working with the Middle School Network to identify whether a partner agency would offer a convenient option for afternoon enrichment for our summer math students. If we develop such a partnership, we will be sure to communicate that as quickly as possible.

In terms of your family’s planning, we encourage you to speak with summer youth program providers to find out whether they can work with you to accommodate your child’s participation in this academic program. We will provide transportation from our programs (located at Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School) to any location you specify, including another youth program. Return to top ^


8. Can students with IEPs or 504 Plans (students with disabilities) take Accelerated Math?
Absolutely. All students who meet the criteria and would feel positively challenged by a faster-paced math program are welcome to take Accelerated Math. Just as some students without disabilities need a faster pace in math, we know that some students with disabilities would benefit from a faster pace in math. In accordance with the law, students with disabilities will be provided with the accommodations and support required by their IEP or 504 plan. If you have questions about how your child’s accommodations will be met within Accelerated Math, or have a concern about how this information has been explained to you, we encourage you to speak with your child’s Principal or contact the CPS Math Curriculum office for further information. Return to top ^

9. Can a student who takes Grade Level Math complete higher math such as Statistics or Calculus during high school?

Yes. There are several different course sequence options at the high school, but students who have the goal of taking calculus or statistics will be able to do so, regardless of which pathway they choose for grades 7-8. Students who take Algebra 1 in 9th grade will need to take two math classes during their 9th grade year, instead of just one math class. In the past, this is how most CRLS students proceeded through their math studies, and we expect that many students will continue with this approach. Return to top ^


10. Is it better to take Accelerated Math than Grade Level Math?

As with most things in life, there are many different paths that people can take as they pursue their goals. Think of the middle school years as an opportunity for your student to shore up the skills they will need for the challenging demands of high school. For some students, only a fast-past math class will keep them interested and engaged. Other, equally bright, students may find that the pace of a Grade Level math class is “just right.” Return to top ^


For More Information:

Julie Ward
Math Coordinator
135 Berkshire Street, Cambridge
617.349.6683

Kathryn Williams
District Math Coach
135 Berkshire Street, Cambridge
617.349.7716

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