Benefits of taking Algebra 1 in 6th grade

[Anonymous]

I would not, unless there is a lot of structure to support the inevitable immaturity of a 6th grader. While he may be able to handle the mathematical concepts, the transition to middle school (assuming it's middle school) is MASSIVE, especially for a kid with ADHD and having the class count for a high school gpa while he's dealing with multiple classes/differing expectations is a lot.

My school only has 7th/8th graders, but the 7th graders who are most successful in algebra 1 are those who are super organized and proactive in seeking support when they are confused. The advanced classes have 30+ kids in them and a quiet kiddo will slide under the radar if they don't fuss when they're confused.

That said, you know your kid best.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I remember a FCPS teacher, who moonlights at one of the enrichment class, said certain advanced math class in middle school actually count as high school classes so the grade is counted as high school GPA. If a child is not doing well on these advanced math classes, he suggest the child drop the class instead of earning a B that will follow him all the way to college application.

I am not sure if Algebra is one of those classes, you should ask the school about it. If it is counted as high school class then be careful, but maybe you can have him try and drop it if he's not doing well.

Colleges do not care about classes taken in middle school, even if it's algebra 1 or geometry

[Anonymous]

There are benefits for taking Algebra in 6th or earlier if your kid is organized, motivated, has already mastered all of pre-algebra, and wants to skip ahead. I doubt there is much benefit to pushing a kid ahead who has poor executive function, isn't a self starter, and needs to cram pre-algebra in the summer beforehand.

[Anonymous]

Knew a kid who took algebra 1 in 6th grade, with ADHD and executive function problems. Did very well. One difference is he was very interested in math, had won awards in elementary. Now going to AET. Nearly went to MathCounts Nationals.

[Anonymous]

He’s not ready. You have to cram pre-algebra into Jun-August. Bad idea.