Honors Mathematics

Frequently Asked Questions What does each test measure? What does my child’s score mean?

Cognitive Skills Index (CSI)

The CSI is a group administered ability test that is designed to measure abstract thinking and reasoning ability and is administered to

all students in grades 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8 in conjunction with the ISTEP+ and/or Terra Nova achievement tests. The test consists of a

variety of tasks including completing analogies, solving matrices, detecting likenesses and differences, following directions,

classifying, and establishing sequences. The raw score (number of questions answered correctly on the test) is converted to a School

Ability Index score based on the child’s age and looks very much like an IQ score. For placement purposes, scores are then assigned

point values ranging from 1-10 points on the placement matrix. The instructional needs of most students scoring 115-125 are generally

well met within the regular instructional program. Although the required minimum score is 125, most children placed in the honors

program have an ability score of 130 -139. A score of 140 or above is exceptional.

Otis Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT)

The OLSAT is a group administered ability test designed to measure abstract thinking and reasoning ability. It is a timed test that

takes approximately one hour to complete. The test consists of a variety of tasks including completing analogies, solving matrices,

detecting likenesses and differences, following directions, classifying, and establishing sequences. The raw score (number of questions

answered correctly on the test) is converted to a School Ability Index score based on the child’s age and looks very much like an IQ

score. For placement purposes, scores are then assigned point values ranging from 1-10 points on the placement matrix. The

instructional needs of most students scoring 115-125 are generally well met within the regular instructional program. Although the

required minimum score is 125, most children placed in the honors program have an ability score of 130 -139. A score of 140 or above

is exceptional.

Test of Mathematical Abilities of Gifted Students (TOMAGS) The TOMAGS is designed to identify students who have talent or giftedness in mathematics. This test requires students to use

mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills to understand how to communicate mathematically to solve problems. The

TOMAGS is a standardized, norm-referenced test that utilizes open-ended responses rather than multiple choice answers. It asks

students to use computation skills to solve problems in situations involving geometry, measurement, money, etc. The raw score is

converted to a final standard score or quotient based on the child’s age. For placement purposes, scores are assigned point values

ranging from 0-20 points on the matrix. A child scoring below 130 on the TOMAGS is not usually a strong candidate for Honors

Math. (A score below 125 does not earn any points on the placement matrix.) While a score between 130 and 140 indicates

mathematical strength, a score of 140 or above is exceptional.

Pre-Algebra Final

Based on the Indiana Academic Standards, this test demonstrates the student’s mastery of mathematical skills needed to begin the

formal study of algebra. For placement purposes, scores are assigned point values ranging from 0-10 points on the matrix. A score

above 64 indicates mathematical strength and possible readiness for algebra. A score above 84 is an exceptional score.

How does the Honors Pre-Algebra 6 class differ from the Advanced Math 6 class? In the Advanced Math 6 program, students who have already mastered sixth grade standards are instructed in seventh grade standards

during their sixth grade year. Successful completion of this sequence of study allows students to take five years of mathematics in high

school. Pre-Algebra 6 is designed for highly advanced students who study pre-algebra in the sixth grade, algebra in the seventh grade,

and geometry in the eighth grade. In addition to the accelerated content, Pre-Algebra 6 focuses on instruction and application in the

context of problem solving and emphasizes higher level critical thinking skills. This rigorous sequence of study allows students to

complete six years of mathematics courses before graduation if they so choose. Specific information regarding course content may be

obtained from the middle school department chairperson: Stephanie Sexton (CAM), Stacy Arnold (CLM), and Angela Moreman

(CRM).

What if my child only missed the cut-off for Honors Pre-Algebra 6 by one point? Missing the cut-off by one point is somewhat deceptive because it doesn’t actually mean that if your child had one more question right

on the test that he/she would have qualified. Since all raw scores are converted to scale scores then placed on the scoring matrix and

assigned point values, earning one more point on the scoring matrix isn’t as easy as it sounds! It means that he/she needed many more

points on his/her actual raw score (number right on the test) to earn just one more point on the scoring matrix. The cut-off scores have

been carefully established to accurately identify those students who have solid mastery of sixth and seventh grade mathematics skills

in number sense, computation, geometry, measurement, algebra and functions, data analysis and probability, and problem solving are

ready for a pre-algebra (eighth grade curriculum) experience in the sixth grade.

If my child doesn’t qualify for Honors Pre-Algebra 6, should I just automatically place him/her in Advanced

Math 6? Since Honors Pre-Algebra 6 testing is open to all students, many students choose to test just for the experience even though they are

not currently performing above grade level and therefore, not strong candidates for Pre-Algebra 6. The decision to place a student in

Advanced Math 6 should be based on teacher recommendation and consultation with the school counselor and/or Math Department

Chairperson.

If my child doesn’t qualify for Honors Pre-Algebra 6, how will that affect his/her opportunities in high

school? Since students mature and learn at different rates, students have the opportunity to test into an honors or advanced level class in the

spring of sixth, seventh, or eighth grade for placement the following school year. Reassignment is based on the student’s

demonstration of prior mastery of the academic standards for the next course in his/her sequence of study. When considering a change

of placement, the teacher also provides valuable insight into the student’s current performance, ability to grasp new concepts, study

habits, interests, and other factors that are important in determining appropriate placement to maximize his/her potential in

mathematics. Please see the attached flow chart for course titles and sequences.

What if my child goes into Advanced Math 6 and finds it too easy? We have found that our placement procedures are very accurate in determining the appropriate level of instruction for students;

however, occasionally a student enters the Advanced Math 6 class and quickly demonstrates content mastery on the pre-test that is

given to all students to determine their prior knowledge of course standards. If a student does exceptionally well on the pre-test, he/she

may be moved to the Honors Pre-Algebra 6 class.

What if my child goes into Honors Pre-Algebra 6 and finds it too difficult? Again, our placement procedures are very rigorous and very accurate! The tests are comprehensive and provide ample evidence of

your child’s knowledge and skills as well as ability to apply mathematical concepts to new problem solving situations. If, however,

your child finds the Honors Pre-Algebra 6 placement too demanding, the counselor and teacher will work together to place him/her in

a more suitable class.

What do I do if I feel that my child’s scores do not reflect his/her true mathematical talent? You should discuss your concerns with your child’s teacher and counselor to seek their perspectives and advice. If, after careful

thought and consideration, you still believe your child’s best interests would be served in the Honors Pre-Algebra 6 program, you may

submit a waiver for placement. Given the rigor and accuracy of the placement tests, a waiver should be exercised only in instances

where classroom performance clearly and substantially indicates that your child is performing two years above grade level. The

waiver process is designed to allow highly motivated students whose test scores are close to the qualifying scores the opportunity to

participate in a more rigorous curriculum if the student truly desires and can succeed in an environment of greater challenge. If a

waiver student experiences difficulty with the pace or rigor of the Pre-Algebra 6 course or is unable to maintain an appropriate grade

average, he/she may be reassigned to Math 6 or Advanced Math 6 at the discretion of the department chairperson to ensure that

mastery of standards and academic progress are maintained.

If the student is entering sixth grade, the waiver application form for Honors Pre-Algebra 6 must be signed by the current classroom

teacher, elementary counselor, parent, and student and stapled to the student’s course planner prior to his/her conference with the

middle school counselor. If the student is entering seventh or eighth grade, the waiver application must be returned to his/her

counselor within one week of receiving Honors Pre-Algebra 6 test results. Waiver applications will not be accepted after this date.

Forms and additional information on the waiver process may be obtained from your school counselor or from the district’s

gifted/talented web site http://www1.ccs.k12.in.us/php/academics/gifted.talented/appeal.waiver.php