What Does the Crystal Ball Show? Using Success Predictors for Algebra Placement in Middle Schools

• In Event: Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Investigating Middle School Mathematics Placement and Instructional Practices

Abstract

This report analyzes data on middle school algebra placements for 2010-11 school year in a large school district, specifically related to achievement projections generated by SAS EVAAS™ system. The district wanted to include more students in middle school algebra 1 classes; EVAAS system offered a way to do that. In this paper, we examine characteristics of students placed or not placed in pre-/Algebra I classes for the 2010-11 school year. Analyses look at the 7th and 8th grade population combined; in other cases, 7th grade/ 8th grade placements are examined separately. 2010-11 placements are compared with earlier placements to examine changes in student population. Finally, predictor values are studied to differentiate among students selected for assignment to algebra 1.

Authors

• David Holdzkom, Wake County Public School System

• Bradley J. McMillen, Wake County Public School System