Algebra I Eligibility Criteria

Testing into Algebra I

These criteria have been set and promulgated by the Superintendent and the curriculum instruction and assessment personnel in the Office of Catholic Schools of the Diocesan Department for Education.

Eligibility will be determined by looking at all of the following factors holistically so that a child is not penalized for a single test score. These criteria are set and reviewed by the Office of Catholic Schools.

• Academic performance in previous grade levels. Consistent academic performance is a critical indicator of success so math academic performance in previous grade levels will be a consideration as well as the student’s ability to work independently and collaboratively and complete work in a timely manner.
• Results of the previous grade Terra Nova Mathematics section with a score of 90% as the recommended guideline. This is not a cut score, only a recommended guideline.
• STAR math scores and the STAR Math Algebra readiness indicator.
• Results of a nationally normed, standardized assessment that has been proven reliable and valid in predicting success in Algebra. The test that has been chosen is the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT). This will be administered every May. 
• Once a student has qualified, parental permission must be given for the student to fully enroll in the Algebra I class.
• The Algebra I class may be taught only by a licensed teacher either grades 7-12 mathematics or grades 4-9 mathematics. The Diocesan Algebra I Course of Study and an approved high school Algebra I text must be used.

As you can see, the above criteria are rigorous and are meant to select those students who demonstrate exceptional talent beyond their grade placement in mathematics. The Algebra I course is a high school course with high school performance expectations. In order to recieve credit for the class, the student must score proficienc or higher on the Ohio State End of Course Algebra 1 exam.

It is our hope at the Office of Catholic Schools that this information will help parents understand the qualification criteria for our high school credit Algebra I program in order to encourage those talented math students to strive for high, rigorous mathematics performance.

More in-depth information on the curiculum can be found in the Ohio's Model Curriculum with Instructional Supports, Algebra 1 Course.