Elementary Math Acceleration
Examinations for Math Acceleration, Grades 1 - 7
The Northwest Independent School District (NISD) provides students in grades 1 through 7, who are currently enrolled in the District and meet specific eligibility criteria, opportunities to advance in math beyond their enrolled grade level through Examinations for Math Acceleration. Acceleration is the state’s term for receiving credit for school work not taken.
The acceleration process involves skipping classroom instruction for a grade level or course. Students must demonstrate mastery of the math standards above their current grade level and for which s/he has not received any formal classroom instruction. This includes 6th & 7th graders who choose to move from on-level to Pre-AP Math. A credit-by-exam (CBE) is required because they have not received instruction on some grade level standards due the compacted curriculum in Pre-AP math courses. Mastery is determined by meeting the district criterion on a locally developed and locally assessed CBE test.
- Students in elementary grades K through 5 must score 90% or higher on the exam(s) to be considered for mathematics acceleration.
- Students in grades 6 through 7 must score 80% or higher on the exam(s) to be considered for mathematics acceleration.
Current NISD students (grades K through 7) who exhibit both process and critical thinking skills beyond the norm on a consistent basis will be eligible to accelerate in math beyond their enrolled grade level. Students must also exhibit mathematical skills beyond basic computation or rote memorization. Acceleration is not for everyone. Before registering to taking the Math Acceleration Exam, parents and students should watch the Math Acceleration for Elementary Students video and refer to Is Math Acceleration Right for My Child? for additional factors to consider.
For details about the Math Acceleration Exam, including how to register, visit Credit by Examination.