IAAT Course Placement Process for Algebra 1 Honors in Grade 7
Understand how IAAT results contribute to Algebra 1 Honors Grade 7 decisions
For students who took the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT) in January 2020, the role of the assessment in the placement process for Grade 7 Algebra 1 Honors will be different than in normal years, due to spring 2020 school closures impacting collection of other standard data points. An information letter is provided to families of these students to explain the adjusted course placement process.
Contents of letter describing changes to the the 2020-21 course placement process are provided below.
GRADE 7 ALGEBRA 1 HONORS PLACEMENT PROCESS
Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of ________________________:
Earlier this year, your child took the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT). This was the first step in the screening process for placement in Algebra 1 Honors for the following academic year. Your child’s IAAT score was sent to you in early March 2020.
Historically, for students to be placed in Algebra 1 Honors in grade 7, all of the following criteria had to be met:
- Successful completion of Advanced Mathematics Grade 6;
- An IAAT score at or above the 91st percentile; and
- A pass advanced score (500 or above) on the Grade 7 Mathematics Standards of Learning (SOL) test
Due to COVID-19 and the suspension of Spring 2020 SOL testing, the IAAT score will be used as a single data point in determining Algebra 1 Honors placement in grade 7 for the 2020-21 school year only.
The IAAT is an aptitude test that measures a child’s readiness for abstract thinking. The Mathematics SOL test measures a student’s mastery of prealgebra content. In the absence of the SOL test score, carefully consider your child’s readiness for this high school algebra course and their mastery of prealgebra content.
During the summer, middle school staff will only use the IAAT to make a mathematics course placement based on your child’s IAAT score. Middle schools will decide on one of the following:
- If your child met the criteria (an IAAT score at or above the 91st percentile), he or she will be placed in Algebra 1 Honors.
- If your child did not meet the criteria (an IAAT score below the 91st percentile), he or she will continue their advanced mathematics coursework and be placed in Mathematics 7 Honors.
*** If your child qualified for Algebra 1 Honors but you would prefer a Mathematics 7 Honors placement, please notify your child’s middle school during the summer to let them know your preference so a change in course placement can be made.
All students who qualify for Algebra I Honors are expected to complete an Algebra I Honors Preparation Module. You will receive details from your Middle School.
Sincerely,
Principal