The Use of the Math Sprint in a Tutorial Program for Sixth Grade Students to Improve End of Grade Test Scores

URE OMPS Summer 2011 Mathematics Team
Team Members: Dalesha Cartman, Marvin Elder II, Sean Leavy.
Team Mentors: Dr. Darnell Johnson, Kaiem Frink, Mr. Brian Jordan.

Key Words: Algebra, Combinatorial Mathematics, Tree Graphs, Estimation, Geometry, Probability, Statistics, Transformations

What is the effect of a math sprint tutorial model on Mathematics achievement of sixth graders at Elizabeth City Middle School in Elizabeth City, North Carolina? A math sprint tutorial process was used during a three-week study with a group of 13 sixth-grade students to increase test scores from the previous 2011 Spring end of grade (EOG) test. The data, gathered from the post-test as a result of the series of tutoring sessions, was compared with the scores from the 2011 Spring EOG. Research studied the improvements made in scores on the North Carolina mathematics state test.

The North Carolina Mathematics Standard Course of Study provides a set of mathematical competencies for each grade and high school course to ensure rigorous student academic performance standards that are uniform across the state. It is based on a philosophy of teaching and learning mathematics that is consistent with the current research, exemplary practices, and national standards.

The North Carolina Mathematics Standard Course of Study is organized in five strands or goals for K-8: Number and Operations, Measurement, Geometry, Data Analysis and Probability, and Algebra. (Geometry and Measurement are combined for grades 9-12.) The objectives for each goal progress in complexity at each grade level and throughout the high school courses. It is the framework upon which classroom instruction and assessment should be planned. It is the ultimate guide for textbook selections and the foundation of the North Carolina testing program. A variety of North Carolina Department of Public Instruction support documents articulate and enhance this curriculum. The Standard Course of Study describes the mathematical concepts, skills, operations, and relationships that are the significant mathematics that all North Carolina students should learn and understand. This is the mathematics that will give North Carolina students the greatest opportunity to shape their futures.