1. Parent Seminar: MS Math For… Parents of Current 6 th Grade Students

2. Introductions…

3. Purpose & Goals…  Share information about 6 th & 7 th grade math  What are the options for 7 th Grade Math?  How does 7 th grade math impact student choices at the high school?  How can parents, teachers and students work together to help our students achieve success?

4. 6 th Grade Math  Current program Foundational Skills Program is standards-aligned  Textbook  Benchmarks  CST Challenges

5. 7 th Grade Math  Current program Focus on Pre-Algebra Program is standards-aligned  Textbook  Benchmarks  CST Challenges

6. Monitoring Progress… Evidence of learning:  In class response to checking for understanding  Review of class work  Review of homework  Math tests and quizzes  District Benchmark Assessments (3)  California Standards Test (Math CST)  MDTP Algebra Readiness Test

7. What about 7 th grade algebra?  Givens: Algebra is defined as 8 th grade math All students must pass Algebra to earn a diploma Algebra is the cornerstone for higher level math  Considerations Accelerated 7 th grade algebra is ‘out of sequence’ Students ‘skip’ pre-algebra Students need a strong math aptitude AND a strong math attitude Placement is determined by standardized criteria

8. What placement criteria are used for Accelerated Algebra?  ‘High’ (500) advanced scores on 5 th grade Math CST  Verify ‘High’ (475) advanced scores on 6 th grade Math CST  Mastery of all 8 pre algebra strands on the MDTP Algebra Readiness Test (Diagnostic Test)  90% overall mastery on all 6 th grade Benchmark Assessments  Teacher recommendation (including grades)

9. Protocol for Placement in Accelerated Algebra  Sixth grade teachers meet with principal to review students meeting the criteria  Preliminary recommendations are determined by the team  A letter is sent to parents with the preliminary recommendation for Accelerated Algebra  Parents agree/disagree with recommendation, sign and return the letter to school before June 9  CST scores are reviewed in August; final placement decisions are made based on scores (475/Adv)  Students are scheduled for either Math 7 (Pre Algebra) or Accelerated Algebra (Honors)

10. Traditional pathway through Arcadia High School mathematics

11. Honors pathway through Arcadia High School mathematics

12. Accelerated pathway through Arcadia High School mathematics

13. Working together as a team  Build a Δ relationship with the student, teacher and parent to support success  Check Agendas for information about homework and upcoming tests  Check BINDERS for homework assignments and completed work  Help student check work for accuracy  Help student study for tests  If student is struggling, investigate!

14. What if my child needs extra help in Math?  Work with together with the teacher and counselor to determine the best level of support.  Possible support systems: Additional Teacher Support Peer Tutoring Intervention  Before School  During Advisory  Academic Elective We’re here to help!

15. Questions?