Mathematics

Destination Graduation: Sixth Grade Early Warning Indicators for Baltimore City Schools

This research by the Baltimore Education Research Consortium examined the drop out indicators from the Baltimore City Schools class of 2007. The authors identified chronic absence; failing English, or math, or both and/or a failing average for English, math science, and social studies; being at least one year overage; and being suspended for three or more days. This resource may be particularly useful for districts or schools looking to use drop out indicators in the middle grades to identify students in need of intervention efforts.

Defining the Intensity of High School Mathematics: Distinguishing Between College-Ready and College-Eligible Students

This study examines high school characteristics that influence high school graduates to be college-ready. The analysis used longitudinal data from a nationally representative sample of eighth grade students. Findings indicate that there should be an increase in academic rigor and higher expectations, greater emphasis on students being continuously enrolled in mathematics courses throughout high school, and completion of senior year mathematics homework out of school all contribute a college-ready graduate.

Preparation of students completing a core-plus or commercially developed high school mathematics curriculum for intense college mathematics coursework

This study analyzes the impact of prior mathematics achievement on the relationship between high school mathematics curriculum and student’s postsecondary mathematics performance. The analysis used mathematics course-taking and achievement data from eight college semesters for 1,588 students. Findings revealed that students were equally prepared for intense college mathematics coursework, regardless of the high school mathematics curriculum they completed.

Aligned Expectations? A Closer Look at College Admissions and Placement Tests

This study evaluates a sample of test questions used by institutions for placement into entry-level, credit-bearing courses in English and mathematics. The report summarizes the nature of the tests currently in use, discusses what states and institutes of higher education can do to adequately measure college readiness and align their tests with the state high school standards.

Paths to success: An evaluation of the Gateway to Higher Education program

This study examines the impact of Gateway to Higher Education, an intensive program which entails an extended year and day, information and support for college, enrichment experiences in sciences and math, and internships. Longitudinal data was examined for Gateway participants and a comparison group of students and site visits, focus groups and interviews were conducted. Findings showed significant differences in high school graduation and college attendance rates, completion of high school coursework and strong Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) performance.

On the Road to Implementation: Achieving the Promise of the Common Core State Standards

This brief from Achieve identifies the key areas that state policymakers should consider in order to implement the new Common Core State Standards with fidelity. The brief provides suggestions for aligning these new standards with their existing standards and course requirements, as well as aligning assessments for collecting data and measuring achievement. The brief lists steps each state can take to ensure they are implementing the standards effectively.

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