6^th to 7^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 7^th grade:

• 2-year accelerated path
  • Only math acceleration path coming out of 6^th grade. 
  • Recommended for 5% - 10% of incoming 7^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 test out of Pre-Algebra and take Algebra 1 as a 7^th grader. 
  • If a student doesn’t qualify for this path at the end of 6^th grade, there is an opportunity to qualify for math acceleration at the end of 7^th grade.
• On-Grade Level
  • Recommended for 90% - 95% of incoming 7^th grade students.
  • Students take Pre-Algebra as a 7^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. 

 

 

Accelerated Paths

 

Math Acceleration Data Criteria

If a student meets the criteria listed below in either option, they will have the opportunity to test out of Pre-Algebra in August.

1. Step #1: School Based Test Scores - 3 years of test scores
   
   • Students must meet or exceed the cut score of 98% to advance to Step #2.
   • 5th Grade Math report card grades (1st Quarter, 2nd Quarter, and 3rd Quarter)
   • 6th Grade Math report card grades (1st Quarter, 2nd Quarter, and 3rd Quarter)
2. Step #2: Pre-Algebra Final Exam
   
   • The student must take the Pre-Algebra Final Exam in August.
   • Pre-Algebra Final Exam = 85% or above will qualify the student for 7th grade Algebra 1

Each family will receive one of two letters, either your child has met the criteria in Step #1 or they haven't met the criteria. If they haven't met the criteria, your child will take Pre-Algebra in 7th grade. If you disagree with this placement, please see the appeal process section below on this website.

If you receive a letter where your child met the criteria in Step #1 because your child has qualified to have the opportunity to do a self-study of Pre-Algebra this summer and take the Pre-Algebra Final Exam in August. If you would like to have your child move forward in the process, please follow the three-step process below. If you would like your child to continue on grade level and take Pre-Algebra in 7^th grade, you don’t have to do anything further.

1. Contact the 6^th Grade Guidance Counselor or the Lower House Principal (Eric Erb)
   1. Arrange to pick up the Pre-Algebra resources (Pre-Algebra book and a concept checklist)
2. Schedule the Pre-Algebra final exam for August.
3. If you choose this option, we highly recommend private tutoring or an accredited Pre-Algebra course in order to prepare for the Pre-Algebra final exam.

 

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:

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.