Advanced Content Classes
Murdock Elementary offers 4th and 5th grade Advanced Content classes in ELA/Reading and Math. Placement is determined by specific criteria. Below are the answers to frequently asked questions.
What is the Advanced Content model?
- Homogeneous grouping on the basis of academic performance/achievement in a specific academic content area
- Classes include gifted and highly able students who have demonstrated exceptional ability and motivation in a particular content area
- Placement is determined by specific criteria
How will Advanced Content impact Target?
The AC model does not impact the Target resource model. Not all gifted students may qualify for AC courses at the elementary level. Students who qualify for both will be expected to attend a full day of Target classes.
AC Criteria
Advanced Content Reading/ELA | ||
| ACHIEVEMENT | 90-99%ile Total Reading on 3rd grade IOWA OR Spring Beacon ELA scale score ≥ 509 | |
| ABILITY | 85-99%ile Verbal Age Percentile on 3rd grade CogAT or NGAT | |
CLASS PERFORMANCE | 3 or 3+ yearly average in 3rd grade reading | |
| MOTIVATION | "Strong reader. Completes all assigned work for reading and language arts" (as described by classroom teacher(s)) | |
Advanced Content Math | ||
| ACHIEVEMENT | 90-99%ile Total MATH on 3rd grade IOWA OR Distinguished learner designation on Milestones in Math OR Spring Beacon Math scale score ≥ 440 (Milestones predictive score or distinguished) | |
| ABILITY | 85-99%ile Quantitative Age Percentile on 3rd grade CogAT or NGAT | |
CLASS PERFORMANCE | 3 or 3+ yearly average in 3rd grade math | |
| MOTIVATION | "Strong math student. Completes all assigned work for math class." (as described by classroom teacher(s)) | |
How will AC instruction be delivered?
- AC students will be clustered together all day into a homeroom class where they receive AC math and AC ELA/Reading from the same teacher.
What are the guidelines for continued placement from 4th to 5th grade AC?
AC Continuation Criteria from 4th to 5th Grade | |
| CLASS PERFORMANCE | 80 - 100% yearly average |
| MILESTONES | Proficient or Distinguished learner designation in the AC course subject |
Will my student be considered for Advanced Content classes in middle school?
- Elementary students in the Advanced Content program do not automatically qualify for advanced classes in middle school.
- Middle school advanced content criteria and placement is a local school decision. If you have questions regarding the placement criteria for your local feeder school, please contact that school directly.
