Your Decision but My Future

• In Event: 77.056 - Fairmont Royal York Roundtable Session Seven
  In Roundtable Session: 77.056-4 - Tracking and Detracking SIG Roundtable Session

Abstract

The opportunity to take Algebra in the 8th grade is a mathematics equity and achievement issue. According to NCTM, equity is defined as the ability to give “all students, regardless of their personal characteristics, background, or physical challenges, opportunities to study and support to learn mathematics” (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 2000, p. 12). NCTM also suggests that equity involves “high expectations and strong support for all students” and “requires high expectations and worthwhile opportunities for all” (p. 12). Consequently, providing greater access to Algebra in the 8th grade is an important step toward reaching equity goals.

Author

• Peter Madison Eley, Fayetteville State University