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From: [log in to unmask]
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Alg. 1 & 8th grade
Date: Thu, Nov 18, 1999, 11:15 AM


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In response to the alg 1 in grade 8 question for Riverside School, much
depends upon what happens in previous grades.  At Main St. M.S. in
Montpelier
we have begun discussing the possibility of not teaching algebra in grade 8
because algebraic concepts are being taught -- as well as geometry,
prob/stats -- beginning in elem. school in our standards-based programs.
Our
rationale is that we are no longer waiting until grade 8 to teach algebra.
We, too, are contemplating no longer tracking in grade 8, but have not made
a
decision at this point.  We do feel that our middle school math program,
Connected Math Program, is considerably more challenging and conceptual in
approach than our traditional algebra text; once we have fully implemented
the program, there may be no point in offering traditional algebra 1.
Furthermore, the high school is piloting a standards-based high school
program which may further make the algebra 1 course obsolete.

Re: who takes algebra 1,  I think it is fine to make recommendations; but
ultimately parents and their children need to be the ones who make the
choice
not the school.  As long as there is the possibility of switching out during

the school year, they can live with their decisions.