Middle School Math Pathway Update (Feb 7, 2025)
Middle School Mathematics Pathway Update
The goal of FCUSD is to ensure that all students have a strong mathematical foundation while providing opportunities for those ready for acceleration in advanced courses. After reviewing our current practices, we are refining our model to create consistency between middle and high school programs.
This new model continues to provide clear acceleration options for our middle school students while ensuring they develop strong mathematical skills. Integrated Math I and II align with high school expectations, making the transition from middle to high school much smoother for students.
In addition, students entering high school will have opportunities to accelerate their studies through a variety of methods including course challenges, Dual Enrollment, or Concurrent Enrollment with a Folsom Lake Community College.
We are confident these refinements will continue to provide challenging, rigorous learning opportunities for our middle school students.
Course Pathways:
Beginning in the Spring of 2025, 5th-grade students who meet the criteria of a Level 4 on the 23-24 CAASPP Mathematics Assessment and a Level 4 on the 24-25 Renaissance Star Math Fall or Winter administration will have the option to take a placement test which will determine their initial middle school mathematics course.
Incoming 6th graders will be placed in a course based on proficiency in grade level standards as indicated below:
Course 1(6th Grade Standards) |
Ready for grade level standards. |
Course 2(7th Grade Standards) |
Demonstrated mastery of 6th grade standards and readiness for 7th grade standards on the placement test. |
Course 3(8th Grade Standards) |
Demonstrated mastery of 7th grade standards and readiness for 8th grade standards on the placement test. |
These pathways ensure:
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Students are learning content suited to their needs and readiness without skipping material or rushing through the curriculum.
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Students develop a deep mathematical foundation​​.
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Students who are ready and able to complete an accelerated path have the opportunity to complete Integrated Math II as 8th graders and Calculus BC by 12th grade.
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Consistency with the acceleration model at the high school level.
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Integrated Math I and II are consistent with the high school courses allowing a positive transition to those programs.
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6th Grade |
7th Grade |
8th Grade |
|
Pathway 1 |
Course 1 | Course 2 | Course 3 |
Pathway 2 |
Course 2 | Course 3 | Integrated Math 1 |
Pathway 3 |
Course 3 | Integrated Math 1 | Integrated Math 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions:
A: The new placement test and acceleration model will be implemented starting with current 5th-grade students.