Reply to Benefits of taking Algebra 1 in 6th grade

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]The algebra 2 curriculum is really no more abstract than the algebra 1 curriculum these days. I would not worry about that.

Algebra 1 transforms linear, quadratic, and exponential functions. Algebra 2 transforms cubic, radical, and rational functions. Algebra 2 does laws of exponents with negative powers, algebra 2 introduces fractional exponents. Algebra 1 factors quadratics. Algebra 2 factors higher order polynomials. The only really abstract thing in algebra 2 that isn’t addressed in algebra 1 is imaginary numbers, but we don’t do much of anything with them, just find them.

The bigger struggle is the organizational skills (or lack of) the younger kids display in higher coursework. Can your child realistically manage scheduling and keeping track of assignments/quizzes/retakes in a class at this point? Do they leave their homework folder at school? Are they shocked by a quiz they didn’t know was happening? Do they lose their test before they can do corrections? That might be worth another year of practicing skills before they count.[/quote]

Absolutely correct! Organizational skills is why I will not enroll my son in 6th grade Algebra. He will take it as a 7th or 8th grade when he starts taking grades A to F seriously. 
Currently in elementary he doesn’t care if he gets 4s or 3s and does not prepare for any tests, doesn’t go through the wrong answers and submit the correction. [/quote]
Looks like your kid is not up for Algebra 1, and in all likelihood will not be admitted. And that's OK.

Meanwhile, hundreds of advanced kids are thriving in 6th grade algebra 1. Thanks to FCPS for offering this choice. [/quote]

I think most parents are fine with there being actual parameters to enrolling in the class. But now the only parameter is a 400 on 6th grade math. The 6th grade curriculum doesn’t even teach Order of Operations anymore. It teaches 1 step equations. So a 400 baseline isn’t showing an ADV kid. 
[/quote]

6th grade advanced math definitely does teach order of operations. My son has been working on it all year. Maybe gen ed math doesn't? My 5th grader has all the baseline they need to take algebra 1 next year. It doesn't mean its the right decision for him, but that decision is not based on the material, they are teaching all the right blocks for kids who want to go to algebra next.

I had my son take a pre algebra assessment and he knew all of it, said it was exactly what his 5th grade aap class has been learning.[/quote]

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