1. Accelerated Math 7
Ellen Johnston Director of Mathematics, K-12 Fayetteville Public Schools Matthew Wilson Middle & Jr. High School Math Coach

2. 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.

3. Common Core State Standards Math (CCSSM)
The National Council of Mathematics (NCTM) was the organization that launched the education standards movement beginning in
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”

4. 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.

5. 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).

6. Arkansas Geometry Content at a Lower Grade in CCSS
Which Container Holds More Popcorn?

7. 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

8. 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 at the 7th grade level.

9. New CCSSM Advanced Math Offerings for Middle School Students
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.

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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.

13. More Questions…
About the Accelerated Math 7 course contact Matt Wilson, Middle School Math Coach or Ellen Johnston, K-12 Director of Mathematics
About the curriculum, review the Accelerated Math 7 curriculum map
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 6th grade Math teacher to get their advice

14. Hear From Students & Teachers about Accelerated Math 7

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