Mathematics Readiness Testing
updated 12/14/2011

The math readiness tests are an effective tool to help place our students in the appropriate math class. We are focusing on Algebra 1 specifically, since this is where our students tend to score poorly, and because it is foundational to the upper level math courses as well as success on the CAHSEE. Also, we are targeting our middle school students to determine if they are ready for Algebra 1. If not, they should continue to work on Pre-Algebra skills in middle school. Also, if they are taking Algebra 1 in middle school, they need to demonstrate proficiency before they move on to higher level classes. Though the STAR does measure proficiency, the MDTP will give results sooner so that the families can prepare for next year.

Who should take readiness tests?

Any middle or high school student may take a readiness test. However, it is required for the following students:

-Elementary students taking Pre-Algebra

-Elementary or middle school students taking Algebra 1 or Geometry

During the Spring semester, the following students will be required to take a math readiness test to determine math placement for the next school year:

-Current 5th or 6^th grade students working above grade level and desiring to take PreAlgebra, Algebra or Geometry next year

-Current 7th grade students desiring to take Algebra 1 next year

-Current 7th grade students taking Pre-Algebra (7th grade standards) this year. The readiness test will help determine appropriate placement for 8^th grade—Algebra Readiness, Pre-Algebra, or Algebra 1

-Current 8th grade students taking Algebra 1 this year. If these students demonstrate proficiency on the readiness test, then they can move on to Geometry or Algebra 2, if not, they should retake high school Algebra 1 in 9th grade.

-Current 7^th or 8^th grade students taking Geometry.

What test is used?

The Mathematics Diagnostic Testing Project (MDTP) will be used.  This is not a placement test, but a readiness test. There are different tests for each different subject. The specific topics covered on each test can be found at this link: http://mdtp.ucsd.edu/testtopics.shtml

PreAlgebra Readiness Test—should be given to a student planning to take PreAlgebra next year. Any student desiring to take PreAlgebra before 7^th grade is required to take the test. The test is recommended for a student planning to take PreAlgebra in 7^th grade (grade level standards), but not required. This will give an indication of areas of strengths and weaknesses to focus on before beginning the course.

Algebra Readiness Test—given to students currently taking PreAlgebra. This is required any student, 7^th grade or younger, taking PreAlgebra this year.

Geometry Readiness Test—this test covers some elementary geometry topics, but is mostly a test of Algebra proficiency. Any student, 8^th grade or younger, currently taking Algebra 1, is required to take this test.

When is the test administered?

Several general testing sessions will be offered in the spring, or the test can be administered by the ES.  The parent may NOT administer the test.

Details for the Spring 2012 testing are still being worked out. Testing should be done toward the end of the student’s current course, so sometime in April is the target. We are transitioning to an online option and details for signing up for the test will be given in the February agenda.