Accelerated Math 6 Ellen Johnston Director of Mathematics, K-12 Fayetteville Public Schools ellen.johnston@fayar.net Matthew Wilson Middle & Jr. High School Math Coach matthew.wilson@fayar.net

Objectives To inform you about the changes in Math Curriculum in regards to the new Common Core State Standards in Math. To provide you information about options for your child about the math pathways from middle grades to high school. To help you make the best decision for your child.

Common Core State Standards Math (CCSSM) The National Council of Mathematics (NCTM) was the organization that launched the education standards movement beginning in 1980. NCTM Principles to Actions- “…presents a historic opportunity to improve mathematics education” which in turn can help US students compete globally. NCTM position paper supporting the CCSSM Please visit Corestandards.org and review the information found under “Learn Why the Common Core is Important for your Child”

CCSS in Arkansas This adoption means that the state of Arkansas has new learning standards for students in grades K-12. As a result of the changes in the learning standards, the content in the mathematics curriculum has changed by shifting to a different grade level or subject area. Many HS topics previously found in the former Arkansas math frameworks have now shifted down to the middle grades curriculum.

About 60% of the former Arkansas Algebra I Content is in a Lower Grade in CCSS 60% of Algebra 1 has shifted to lower grades. Solve and graph simple absolute value equations and inequalities (Grade 6). Communicate real world problems graphically, algebraically, numerically and verbally (Grade 7). Solve systems of two linear equations: --numerically, algebraically, and graphically, and with technology (Grade 8).

Arkansas Geometry Content at a Lower Grade in CCSS http://www.corestandards.org/Math/Content/8/G http://www.corestandards.org/Math/Content/8/G Which Container Holds More Popcorn?

The content is changing for High School Algebra and Geometry courses as well: Algebra I will have more Algebra II concepts. Geometry will have more Trigonometry concepts with a focus on transformations and proof. Algebra II will have more Precalculus concepts. Pre-AP Algebra II is a hybrid Algebra II-Precalculus course that allows students who demonstrate mastery of the content to go straight to Calculus

CCSSM Experts Advice on Acceleration NO CONTENT SHOULD BE OMITTED OR SKIPPED OVER Students should progress through 6th grade Common Core, 7th grade Common Core, 8th grade Common Core before beginning CCSS HS Math There may be a very few students (top 3-5%) who would benefit from some acceleration starting in middle school.

New CCSSM Advanced Math Offerings for Middle School Students Accelerated Math 6 is designed to better prepare students for Accelerated Math 7 Accelerated Math 7 is designed to teach all of the 7th grades CCSSM content and about ½ of 8th grade CCSSM content. 8th Grade Pre-AP Algebra I is designed to teach about ½ of 8th grade CCSSM content and all of the CCSSM Algebra I content.

Math Course Sequence Grade Core Graduation Sequence Smart Core Graduation Sequence Smart Core ADVANCED Graduation Sequence 7th MATH 7 ACCELERATED MATH 7 8th MATH 8 PRE-AP ALGEBRA I 9th ALGEBRA I ALGEBRA I or PRE-AP GEOMETRY 10th GEOMETRY GEOMETRY or PRE-AP ALGEBRA II 11th BRIDGE TO ALGEBRA II ALGEBRA II or PRECALCULUS or AP CALCULUS AB or AP STATISTICS 12th ALGEBRA II COURSE ABOVE ALGEBRA II or AP STATISTICS or COLLEGE ALGEBRA AP CALCULUS BC or

Attributes for Advanced Math Courses Demonstrates higher level thinking skills Retains and is able to apply learned concepts Accepts the challenge of accelerated activities Displays proper mathematical procedures Acquires new information quickly Works well independently; seeks help when needed Fluent in computational skills Is able to explain answers/justify responses using written expression Effectively communicates mathematical thinking Works well in groups

What is best for my child? Do they enjoy math? Do they want to take the course? Do they possess the attributes on the previous slide? Consider their interests – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Consider their time availability. Consider maturity, responsibility, frustration levels.

More Questions… About the Accelerated Math 6 course contact Matt Wilson, Middle School Math Coach or Ellen Johnston, K-12 Director of Mathematics About the pathway review the Math Course Sequence chart with FAQs About your child’s classroom participation and readiness for this coursework contact his/her 5th grade Math teacher to get their advice

Hear From Students & Teachers about Accelerated Math

Thank You! NOT Common Core Which container holds more popcorn answer