Alg I in 6th grade

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

Why are you so stuck on the principle not recognizing you child’s greatness from the 3rd grade MAP test taken years ago? You seem to make it your purpose in life to bring up how you were wronged on every DCUM algebra thread. I honestly feel sorry for you, even more so for your child. Quit the victim mentality and move on with your life for the sake of your child.

Not the PP but what's it to you? Why does this seem to bother you so much? Feel guilty for opportunity hoarding?

I genuinely feel bad for her child, and she needs to hear from someone. Victim mentality is a terrible thing to model for a child. Even if the child could have handled it, it’s not the end of the world the school didn’t accommodate Algebra 1 in 6th. Brooding over this perceived missed opportunity for years is just toxic for the child.

I think they're lucky their parent would fight this injustice and stand up to privilege to ensure others have equal opportunity! By your logic, MLK had a victim mentality and you'd shame him for fighting for equal rights.

Burned en good! LOL but hard to sympathize with posters advocating for opportunity awarding and keeping down the poor

You’d be funny if you weren’t as sad and pathetic. I weep thinking the kind of pressured and delusional environment your child is in.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

This just means that you have an inflexible principal, or it means that your child is not the outlier that you perceive him to be. It doesn't mean that opportunities are lacking in Title I schools writ large. My kid tested off the charts at a Title I school. The school math resource teacher met one on one with my child to assess his math level and the proper placement. He ultimately ended up skipping 2/3 grade levels of math, taking IAAT and 7th grade SOL when in 4th grade and Algebra in 5th. Title I schools might not have sufficient cohort to offer Pre-Algebra in general to 5th graders. They absolutely can and will allow an individual child to join a higher grade level for math class when the child is otherwise an outlier.

You are in VA so it's a bit different can MCPS. 250 isn't abnormal in MCPS for MAP in 3rd but it's the 5th grade that counts. Only one school offers aim and it really doesn't matter. Supplement at home. About 1/3 the middle schools allow Algebra in 6th but only a select few are allowed or choose to do it. Otherwise smart kids take Algebra in 7th. Not a big deal either way. I would not have wanted my child to take AIM in 5th. Starting Algebra with out AIM was fine but child did do a summer prep class to make sure they could handle it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

This just means that you have an inflexible principal, or it means that your child is not the outlier that you perceive him to be. It doesn't mean that opportunities are lacking in Title I schools writ large. My kid tested off the charts at a Title I school. The school math resource teacher met one on one with my child to assess his math level and the proper placement. He ultimately ended up skipping 2/3 grade levels of math, taking IAAT and 7th grade SOL when in 4th grade and Algebra in 5th. Title I schools might not have sufficient cohort to offer Pre-Algebra in general to 5th graders. They absolutely can and will allow an individual child to join a higher grade level for math class when the child is otherwise an outlier.

Most ES teachers are not qualified to teach AIM. Most schools don't have enough kids ready for AIM.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

Why are you so stuck on the principle not recognizing you child’s greatness from the 3rd grade MAP test taken years ago? You seem to make it your purpose in life to bring up how you were wronged on every DCUM algebra thread. I honestly feel sorry for you, even more so for your child. Quit the victim mentality and move on with your life for the sake of your child.

Not the PP but what's it to you? Why does this seem to bother you so much? Feel guilty for opportunity hoarding?

I genuinely feel bad for her child, and she needs to hear from someone. Victim mentality is a terrible thing to model for a child. Even if the child could have handled it, it’s not the end of the world the school didn’t accommodate Algebra 1 in 6th. Brooding over this perceived missed opportunity for years is just toxic for the child.

I think they're lucky their parent would fight this injustice and stand up to privilege to ensure others have equal opportunity! By your logic, MLK had a victim mentality and you'd shame him for fighting for equal rights.

Burned en good! LOL but hard to sympathize with posters advocating for opportunity awarding and keeping down the poor

It is difficult to comprehend why this mean-spirited poster would criticize a low-income parent at a Title 1 school who is doing their best to support their gifted child. From my perspective, their efforts are truly admirable. The comparison to MLK was accurate, and it is misguided to shame for standing up for equal opportunity and downright fairness!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

This just means that you have an inflexible principal, or it means that your child is not the outlier that you perceive him to be. It doesn't mean that opportunities are lacking in Title I schools writ large. My kid tested off the charts at a Title I school. The school math resource teacher met one on one with my child to assess his math level and the proper placement. He ultimately ended up skipping 2/3 grade levels of math, taking IAAT and 7th grade SOL when in 4th grade and Algebra in 5th. Title I schools might not have sufficient cohort to offer Pre-Algebra in general to 5th graders. They absolutely can and will allow an individual child to join a higher grade level for math class when the child is otherwise an outlier.

You are in VA so it's a bit different can MCPS. 250 isn't abnormal in MCPS for MAP in 3rd but it's the 5th grade that counts. Only one school offers aim and it really doesn't matter. Supplement at home. About 1/3 the middle schools allow Algebra in 6th but only a select few are allowed or choose to do it. Otherwise smart kids take Algebra in 7th. Not a big deal either way. I would not have wanted my child to take AIM in 5th. Starting Algebra with out AIM was fine but child did do a summer prep class to make sure they could handle it.

The thing that gets me about all this is how parents use the acceleration that is only available at a handful of wealthy schools as a golden ticket to unlock programs like TJ and later complain how it's gone downhill when fewer privileged students are now admitted because the county adopts a more equitable admissions policy.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

Why are you so stuck on the principle not recognizing you child’s greatness from the 3rd grade MAP test taken years ago? You seem to make it your purpose in life to bring up how you were wronged on every DCUM algebra thread. I honestly feel sorry for you, even more so for your child. Quit the victim mentality and move on with your life for the sake of your child.

Not the PP but what's it to you? Why does this seem to bother you so much? Feel guilty for opportunity hoarding?

I genuinely feel bad for her child, and she needs to hear from someone. Victim mentality is a terrible thing to model for a child. Even if the child could have handled it, it’s not the end of the world the school didn’t accommodate Algebra 1 in 6th. Brooding over this perceived missed opportunity for years is just toxic for the child.

I think they're lucky their parent would fight this injustice and stand up to privilege to ensure others have equal opportunity! By your logic, MLK had a victim mentality and you'd shame him for fighting for equal rights.

Burned en good! LOL but hard to sympathize with posters advocating for opportunity awarding and keeping down the poor

It is difficult to comprehend why this mean-spirited poster would criticize a low-income parent at a Title 1 school who is doing their best to support their gifted child. From my perspective, their efforts are truly admirable. The comparison to MLK was accurate, and it is misguided to shame for standing up for equal opportunity and downright fairness!

Sock puppetry much? You have serious delusions comparing yourself to MLK just because the principal at you ES didn’t bend to your every whim. As many others have posted, no big deal to take algebra later, and there are many other options available to take it earlier. Most likely either they didn’t think the child could handle it or didn’t have the resources available.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

This just means that you have an inflexible principal, or it means that your child is not the outlier that you perceive him to be. It doesn't mean that opportunities are lacking in Title I schools writ large. My kid tested off the charts at a Title I school. The school math resource teacher met one on one with my child to assess his math level and the proper placement. He ultimately ended up skipping 2/3 grade levels of math, taking IAAT and 7th grade SOL when in 4th grade and Algebra in 5th. Title I schools might not have sufficient cohort to offer Pre-Algebra in general to 5th graders. They absolutely can and will allow an individual child to join a higher grade level for math class when the child is otherwise an outlier.

You are in VA so it's a bit different can MCPS. 250 isn't abnormal in MCPS for MAP in 3rd but it's the 5th grade that counts. Only one school offers aim and it really doesn't matter. Supplement at home. About 1/3 the middle schools allow Algebra in 6th but only a select few are allowed or choose to do it. Otherwise smart kids take Algebra in 7th. Not a big deal either way. I would not have wanted my child to take AIM in 5th. Starting Algebra with out AIM was fine but child did do a summer prep class to make sure they could handle it.

The thing that gets me about all this is how parents use the acceleration that is only available at a handful of wealthy schools as a golden ticket to unlock programs like TJ and later complain how it's gone downhill when fewer privileged students are now admitted because the county adopts a more equitable admissions policy.

They constantly complain about 6th-grade algebra too. What is the difference if a child does AIM or not as they can go to 6th-grade algebra without AIM except at Tacoma Park Magnet? The other lower-income schools offer it for kids locked out of Magnet to get them to go to their school either via lottery or assigned school. If that one school has a huge number of smart kids, which isn't surprising given the wealth, why not offer it? The reality is it is easy to get kids higher MAP scores if you supplement outside MCPS at home - we did via workbooks and now use the free tutoring so the person screaming about paid tutors - we have never paid for tutoring. The other issue is you need a qualified teacher and most ES teachers aren't qualified. But, my child who skipped AIM will be at the same spot those kids in 5th are who took AIM.

[Anonymous]

My kid was eligible to take Alg in 6th grade, but FCPS ES principal would not allow (site based management). Ended up at TJ and slow rolled his math but ended up in MV senior year. He’s now at aT10 university majoring in a math intensive field. If the kid is actually interested in math they’ll be fine.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:
I think this is off too. Going from 260s to 290s while they are at home doing normal 3-5th grade homework and maybe some supplement just wouldn’t happen. I can’t imagine the type of out school work a kid would be doing to have these gains. My child has ranged from high 250s-low 260s in 3,4, and now 5th grade. So it is clear he has a high level of math skill but also hasn’t been learning anything new in a long time. We try at home, but we our best at home, it isn’t enough. I think ultimately he would benefit from being in an actual math class at school that is teaching him new material, which is why I’m considering alg I in 6th grade. I expect it to be a mix of some review and some new material.

From my experience: our child scored 275 on NWEA MAP 2-5 in 4th grade (due to Covid acceleration), got a raw 60/60 on the IAAT in 5th grade, perfect SOL - they're now completing Algebra I in sixth grade.
Although only about 2.5% of their cohort was admitted to Algebra in 6th grade, it's clear that some of the other kids shouldn't be there and a dragging down the level of instruction compared to what could be done. (They score 80-90% on tests that allow Desmos...)

Unfortunately, if I were you, I'd still be pushing for Algebra in 6th grade for the alternative of more school-level prealgebra is worse and a waste of time.


But I would have my child go deeper in prep: make sure they're at the mastery level of all Alcumus Prealgebra subjects, and potentially pay for them to take the online version of Prealgebra 1 + 2 at AoPS (or the in-person version if you can afford the money and logistics). We also did their Algebra A course when our child was in 5th grade. Then school-level Algebra I will indeed be mostly review and they can focus on working ahead on the Geometry and Intermediate Algebra, which we're addressing now.

Also make sure they participate in AMC-8, Math Kangaroo, and Mathcounts and engage in regular practice there.

It seems you essentially homeschool your child. Not sure why he’s taking 6th grade Algebra at this point, maybe for credit or because it’s the most accelerated path available at the school.

What is really rubbing me the wrong way is how you claim the other kids scoring in the 80-90% don’t belong to that class, when in fact it’s your own child that doesn’t belong there having already completed the material. You have the expectation that 6th grade algebra should somehow be modified to match your child’s level and not the level of the other students in the class that were placed appropriately.

Kudos to the kids that work hard, but sometimes the parents of these children are so insufferable and disparage other kids when most likely there are equally as bright, but just don’t have the early exposure to accelerate them along the math pathway.

The 6th graders in algebra should do better than that, and are elsewhere the top students in the class.

Meanwhile, at title one schools students are denied these opportunities despite being the top students in their class

No they are not. Title one schools all offer algebra I, typically to 8th graders, where there is low participation anyhow. The amount of 6th graders that could qualify to take it are very very few, probably one every few yrs. There are few 6th graders doing this even in the best districts. Majority of schools would have zero issue putting a 6th grader in it since there is so little demand and it is an easy accommodation.

Oh really? That is NOT TRUE. Please name a single title-1 school that offers Pre-Algebra to 5th graders like the wealthy elemenataries. Some wealthy MS offer Algebra 1 to any 6th graders who score over 250 on their 5th grade MAP-M. Well, DC scored over 250 on the same test in 3rd grade. I remember asking the principal of our title-1 school if there was anything they could offer them since they were not challenged. They said sorry we don't offer that here.

Why are you so stuck on the principle not recognizing you child’s greatness from the 3rd grade MAP test taken years ago? You seem to make it your purpose in life to bring up how you were wronged on every DCUM algebra thread. I honestly feel sorry for you, even more so for your child. Quit the victim mentality and move on with your life for the sake of your child.

Not the PP but what's it to you? Why does this seem to bother you so much? Feel guilty for opportunity hoarding?

I genuinely feel bad for her child, and she needs to hear from someone. Victim mentality is a terrible thing to model for a child. Even if the child could have handled it, it’s not the end of the world the school didn’t accommodate Algebra 1 in 6th. Brooding over this perceived missed opportunity for years is just toxic for the child.

I think they're lucky their parent would fight this injustice and stand up to privilege to ensure others have equal opportunity! By your logic, MLK had a victim mentality and you'd shame him for fighting for equal rights.

Burned en good! LOL but hard to sympathize with posters advocating for opportunity awarding and keeping down the poor

It is difficult to comprehend why this mean-spirited poster would criticize a low-income parent at a Title 1 school who is doing their best to support their gifted child. From my perspective, their efforts are truly admirable. The comparison to MLK was accurate, and it is misguided to shame for standing up for equal opportunity and downright fairness!

It does boggle the mind

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My kid was eligible to take Alg in 6th grade, but FCPS ES principal would not allow (site based management). Ended up at TJ and slow rolled his math but ended up in MV senior year. He’s now at aT10 university majoring in a math intensive field. If the kid is actually interested in math they’ll be fine.

This.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My kid was eligible to take Alg in 6th grade, but FCPS ES principal would not allow (site based management). Ended up at TJ and slow rolled his math but ended up in MV senior year. He’s now at aT10 university majoring in a math intensive field. If the kid is actually interested in math they’ll be fine.

Glad to hear it worked out for you

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My kid was eligible to take Alg in 6th grade, but FCPS ES principal would not allow (site based management). Ended up at TJ and slow rolled his math but ended up in MV senior year. He’s now at aT10 university majoring in a math intensive field. If the kid is actually interested in math they’ll be fine.

This.

Agree but it does seem wrong the school system makes it even harder on low income kids. We're at a regular school but feel all kids deserve the same opportunities.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My kid was eligible to take Alg in 6th grade, but FCPS ES principal would not allow (site based management). Ended up at TJ and slow rolled his math but ended up in MV senior year. He’s now at aT10 university majoring in a math intensive field. If the kid is actually interested in math they’ll be fine.

This.

Agree but it does seem wrong the school system makes it even harder on low income kids. We're at a regular school but feel all kids deserve the same opportunities.

You haven’t found a single person to agree with you on this thread. On the contrary, multiple posters described opportunities available to low income students for taking algebra early.

At least you’re persistent in you victimhood.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:If your child took Alg I in 6th grade, what did high school look like for them as far as math tracks?

In MCPS can take classes like: Analysis 2, AP Statistics, Sports Statistics, Logic, Linear Algebra, Discrete Math, and Complex Analysis after Calc BC.

The only problem there is Algebra is only offered in MCPS to 6th graders who

1) Went to a wealthy Potomac ES that offers AIM in 5th grade
2) Goes to a wealthy Potomac MS that allows students with >250 MAP-M to take it in 6th

Most ES or MS don't have this allow this. DC, who went to a regular ES and even the magnet MS had 250 MAP-M at age 8 and 290s in 6th did not have that option. My point is it has more to do with which school you attend than your child's mathematical aptitude.

Even if it isn’t a formal option, as long as alg I is offered at the middle school the child is attending, I can’t see a counselor saying no.

They say no. It isn’t an option, formal or otherwise.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:If your child took Alg I in 6th grade, what did high school look like for them as far as math tracks?

In MCPS can take classes like: Analysis 2, AP Statistics, Sports Statistics, Logic, Linear Algebra, Discrete Math, and Complex Analysis after Calc BC.

The only problem there is Algebra is only offered in MCPS to 6th graders who

1) Went to a wealthy Potomac ES that offers AIM in 5th grade
2) Goes to a wealthy Potomac MS that allows students with >250 MAP-M to take it in 6th

Most ES or MS don't have this allow this. DC, who went to a regular ES and even the magnet MS had 250 MAP-M at age 8 and 290s in 6th did not have that option. My point is it has more to do with which school you attend than your child's mathematical aptitude.

Aren’t you bored posting the same thing in every algebra thread on dcum?

What you are saying it’s not true, it’s not clear what test your child took, what’s the school policy etc. a lot of times parents use one datapoint to demand placement as if it’s an mandatory outcome. If your child is a true 290 on the MAP 6+ in 6th grade they’d be in the 99% of 12th graders and they would be tested on prealgebra, algebra 1 and 2, geometry and precalculus questions. Trust me that there would be no reason for your child to take Algebra 1 at that point. Most likely the child is bright, but nonetheless took MAP 2-5 that only tests arithmetic and not prealgebra, and is not a good indicator or algebra readiness. The school probably looked at more data points and coupled with the fact that likely you’re a pain to deal with decided not to accommodate your request because they assessed that it wouldn’t be in the interest of your child’s education.

They’re no public school that can educate the type of student you describe, only viable option is homeschooling. It just sounds like you have an axe to grind or making excuses.

I’ma different poster and can back up this PP that it doesn’t master how high her kids MAP is or isn’t the magnet middle school WILL NOT put the child in algebra in 6th grade based on MAP scores, or anything other than having taken pre-algebra (aka AIM) in 5th grade.