GUIDELINES FOR PLACEMENT OF 8TH GRADE STUDENTS

To assist your student to SOAR at Nagel Middle School and beyond, here is some important academic
information. Details include eligibility criteria for 8th grade Foreign Language, 8th grade Algebra I and
Honors Geometry.

Criteria for 8th grade Foreign Language Eligibility

Eighth grade foreign language is a high school course. This course requires semester exams, which
appear on high school transcripts and are calculated into the students’ high school grade point average
(GPA). Foreign language has limited seating. To be considered for a foreign language, students must
be eligible.

The data driven foreign language selection process is outlined below:

• Foreign Language Aptitude Test

7th grade students will take a foreign language aptitude test which is designed for middle
school students. This test measures students’ readiness for learning a foreign language. All
7th grade students will be assessed on vocabulary language analysis, sound discrimination,
and sound-symbol association. Students are not required to study for this test as it is a
measure of foreign language readiness. This test was given on January 21, 2011.
• 6th Grade OAA Reading Scores
• Teacher Rubric evaluates students based on class test grades, work habits, motivation for
learning and essential skills.
All students eligible are rank ordered by above criteria and offered a choice of languages that include:
French, German, Latin and Spanish. Rank order of the student determines if he/she receives a
language and is given his/her 1st, 2nd or 3rd choice of foreign language.

Criteria for 8th grade Geometry

This course requires semester exams, which appear on high school transcripts and are calculated into
the students’ high school grade point average (GPA).

• Geometry
Students who successfully complete Algebra I as a 7th grader can take Honors Geometry in 8th
grade.

Criteria for 8th Grade Algebra I

This course requires semester exams, which appear on high school transcripts and are calculated into
the students’ high school grade point average (GPA).

• Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT) is a four-section test with time limitations on each
section. Students are not permitted to use a calculator, but are given scratch paper as needed.
The four sections of the test measure pre-algebraic number skills and concepts, interpreting
mathematical information, representing relationships, and using symbols. The 7th grade
curriculum provides the necessary content and experiences for some students to demonstrate
readiness for algebra in the 8th grade. Students are not required to study for this test as it is a
measure of algebra readiness. The test took place in math class in January, 2011. Students
currently taking Algebra I will be exempt from the IAAT.
• 6th Grade OAA Math Scores
• Teacher Rubric – evaluates students based on grades, performance level, work ethic, self
motivation and attendance.