thoughts on Algebra 1 Honors vs. Math 7 Honors in 7th grade?

[Anonymous]

Interested in any thoughts on the advantages/disadvantages choosing of Algebra 1 Honors instead of Math 7 Honors (or the other way round) for a 7th grader. Is Algebra 1 an a high-pressure environment? Does it require inordinate amounts of homework time? Does Math 7 Honors repeat what kids did in 6th grade math in the AAP program? Is it important to be on the accelerated track for curriculum or school choices down the line? Any experiences of kids who were glad to have taken it, or regretted it, or switched from one class to the other? Thanks for any input.

[Anonymous]

Don't base your decision to take A1H on the score on the Iowa, if that's what is still being done. That test specifically states (on their website) that it is not to be used for placement. Our son got in the 97th percentile for math in 6th grade, did A1H in 7th and barely passed. He re-took it in 8th and did only a bit better (B-). Don't push math, IMO. Kids should do a level in which they are confortable and confident.

[Anonymous]

I took Algebra I in 7th grade. We were one of the first classes to do so in my school district at the time. It was a great experience - but I was already in G&T math and I was clearly ready to take Algebra. I'm sure a large part of it is the teacher too. I'm always of the opinion that kids should be challenged (including in math!). If it really is too difficult can your 7th grader switch mid-year? If it were my kid and they had the option I'd encourage them to try it - but that's just me.

[Anonymous]

I took Algebra 1-2 in seventh grade followed by Algebra 3-4 in eighth grade at my junior high in IL. It really depends on your child and not the test scores as PP stated...what was considered highly accelerated back in 1987 is not thought of the same way now. If you are gunning for TJ of course, Geometry in 8th is an absolute necessity IMO.