You’ve probably seen a lot of students here at Parkland excelling in higher level math classes far above their grade you might wonder how they have managed to get to such a high math level so fast. Typically, students usual skip a math level by taking it over the summer on the learning platform Edgenuity.
For those of you who are unaware, students can take a month-long very accelerated course that covers an entire year of math in the hopes of getting placed in a higher math level the next year. In order to qualify for the next level, you must achieve a 75% in the course (85% if you wish to advance to honors). This percentage includes your Edgenuity course grade as well as an in-person test that counts for 20% of your total course grade. While it can be great to advance, it’s worth noting that the workload is quite intensive, and you’ll likely have to spend a few hours a day every day during the month minus weekends. So, doing a math course over the summer might not be the best option if you’re planning on having a summer job or you already have a bunch of other summer homework.
On the plus side, if you’re (domestically) traveling during the course, the course is asynchronous and self-paced, so you can do it from wherever as long as you have the time and your Chromebook. And, if you’re lost, on weekdays (minus the fourth of July holiday) you can attend office hours from PHS teachers and ask questions, you just need to schedule them at least 24 hours in advance. On another negative note, it’s hard to retain so much information in such a short time, so oftentimes you are sacrificing some degree of course understanding, which can negatively impact you on the cumulative in-person exam as well as in future math courses, especially when compared to peers who have had a full year to absorb the information.
On the topic, Miriam Kelawy (10), who skipped a math level herself over the summer said, “…honestly, when it comes to doing math courses over the summer it’s definitely great if you want to get ahead in school in general, but it’s all based on your abilities. If you are taking it- I highly recommend you self evaluate your own skills and limits before making that decision. The course itself is tough…you have to work diligently and efficiently- but in my experience it can be extremely stressful and draining…In conclusion I’d say to go ahead, but know your capacity.”
So in summary, while doing a math course over the summer is a great way to get ahead, you need to make sure you know what you’re getting into first.
