5^th to 6^th Grade Math Acceleration

In the Upper Merion Area School District we are proud to offer acceleration in mathematics in 5^th, 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grade. Each year we use a process specific for each grade level to identify students to accelerate in mathematics. This gives students four chances at acceleration starting in 4^th grade.

There are two paths students may take going into 6^th grade:

• 2-year accelerated path
  • Only math acceleration path available coming out of 5^th grade. 
  • Recommended for 5% - 10% of incoming 6^th grade students.
  • An extremely rigorous path intended for students who would like a math and science heavy focus for high school.
  • Students on this path will take Pre-Calculus during their 10^th grade year and AP Calculus during their 11^th grade year.
  • Students skip 6^th grade math and take Pre-Algebra as a 6^th grader. 
  • If a student doesn’t qualify for this path at the end of 5^th grade, there is an opportunity to qualify for math acceleration at the end of 6^th grade and 7^th grader. 
• On-Grade Level
  • Recommended for 90% - 95% of incoming 6^th grade students.
  • Students take 6^th grade math as a 6^th grade student.
  • A path intended for students who enjoy math and would like a balanced experience between the humanities, mathematics, and sciences in high school.
  • Students complete Algebra 1 in either 8^th or 9^th grade. 

Please see the visual diagram of the different paths a student may take over the next few years. There are three opportunities to accelerate into the 2-year accelerated path: (1) Entering 5^th grade, (2) entering 6^th grade, and (3) entering 7^th grade. The 1-year accelerated path is offered after 7^th grade when a student is entering 8^th grade.

 

Accelerated Paths

 

 

 

Math Acceleration Data Criteria

If a student meets the criteria listed below in either option, they will have the opportunity to accelerate.

1. Option #1: School Based Test Scores - 3 years of test scores
   
   • All available test scores are from 3rd and 4th Grade EM4 Unit Test Scores.
   • 5th Grade Math report card grades. (Quarter 1, 2, 3, and 4)
   • Your child's scores and a cut score to qualify will be shared in late June.
2. Option #2: State-Based Test Scores
   
   • The Pennsylvania System School Assessment (PSSA) is a standards-based, criterion-referenced assessment, which is given to all students in grades 3 – 8. The scores from these tests provide students, parents, and educators with an understanding of student performance related to the mastery of the PA Core academic standards for each grade level.
   • 5th Grade Math PSSA Test Score.
   • Your child's scores and a cut score to qualify will be shared in late June.

 

Appeal Process

If you disagree with the decision about acceleration for your child, you may appeal the decision. An appeals process is in place for two reasons: (1) If your child did not qualify and you would like to appeal the decision or (2) if your child did qualify and you would like your child to stay on-grade level in math.

If you would like to appeal the decision, please contact Dr. Sean Gardiner directly at sgardiner@umasd.org. Please include the following in your email the following:

1. Your child’s name.
2. Your child’s current grade level.
3. The reason you are appealing the decision.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Sean Gardiner directly at sgardiner@umasd.org. All math acceleration decisions are handled through the Curriculum & Instruction office and not by individual teachers or building principals.