Math FAQs

General Mathematics FAQ

What does PVCM stand for?
Palos Verdes Core Math

What does MCR stand for?
Meets College Requirements (all MCR courses are UC approved.)

Is it mandatory for students to be accelerated in mathematics?
No. Students will have choice and opportunities to reach advanced levels of mathematics on any course sequence.

Are there any additional course options for a student who struggles in mathematics?
The Essentials of Algebra sequence distributes Algebra 1 content over two years. After successful completion of the Essentials of Algebra program students may then enroll in a Geometry course. This sequence is in place to support students and ensure they will meet high school graduation requirements.

When can a student take AP Statistics?
Students can take AP Statistics with completed or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 Honors or Algebra 2.

When can a student take AP Computer Science?
Students can take AP Computer Science once they have completed Geometry or Geometry Honors with a grade of B or better.

What is the mathematics prerequisite for Chemistry 1?
For current Grade 8 students and beyond, Chemistry 1 or Chemistry 1 Honors will require completed or concurrent enrollment in Geometry.

Are teachers properly trained to teach the California State Standards?
All PVPUSD teachers are highly-qualified, credentialed teachers. Professional development is being provided to support teachers to meet the expectations of instruction under the new state standards and improve teaching and learning in all classrooms for all students.

Math Acceleration FAQ

Are there opportunities for students to accelerate in mathematics?

Yes. PVPUSD provides opportunities and access to advanced mathematics courses for students, while maintaining sound principles at all levels. Mathematics instruction has become increasingly sophisticated, and students must have a solid foundation before moving on to higher-level courses. PVPUSD also realizes that opportunities to advance are valued by the community and will remain in place for our students. The established course sequencing provides opportunities for all students to be successful and reach advanced levels of mathematics in high school. Board Policy 6152.1: Placement in Mathematics Courses

Where do I find information about math acceleration?
The district Math Acceleration & Bridge Courses website has all of the information you need.

How do I know if my student is ready for acceleration?
Please check out our “Are you Ready for Honors or Acceleration?” questionnaire. If your student can confidently answer yes to all of the questions, they may be ready for acceleration. Keep in mind that acceleration too soon or when a student is not ready can negatively affect the progress of the student.

What is the required district Math Acceleration by Demonstration assessment?
This assessment is a content assessment that covers the corresponding CA Common Core Standards and the CA Standards for Mathematical Practice for the course. The purpose of this assessment is to verify the student has the appropriate level of content knowledge and mathematical ability to continue to the next course in sequence.

When is the required district Math Acceleration by Demonstration assessment?
The assessment will be administered in March.

What if a student is sick on the day of the assessment? Will there be a make-up opportunity?
The district will provide a second assessment date when necessary. If a student misses the assessment due to illness or other unforeseen circumstance, please reach out to [email protected].

How do I sign up to take an Acceleration by Demonstrated district assessment?
Please complete the math interest form found on the Math Acceleration & Bridge Courses website. By completing this form, you will be on the list to receive further details about next steps and when to sign up. Expect an email to sign up in early spring.

What is the difference between Acceleration by Bridge course and Acceleration by Demonstration?
Acceleration by Bridge Course – This type of acceleration allows a student to self-study content during the summer to be best prepared for the next course in sequence. This acceleration does NOT require a placement assessment before registering for the next course. It is recommended that students listen to their teacher’s recommendation to determine if a Bridge Course acceleration is best for them. This is a 1-year acceleration opportunity.

Acceleration by Demonstration – This type of acceleration allows a student to self-study content during the school year while concurrently enrolled in another PVPUSD math course. This acceleration REQUIRES a placement assessment and additional criteria as stated in the Placement in Mathematics Courses administrative regulation (6152.1). It is recommended that students listen to their teacher recommendation to determine if Acceleration by Demonstration is best for them. This is a 2-year acceleration opportunity.

If a student does not meet the acceleration requirements one year, can they try again the next year?
Yes, they may try again the next year.

What are all the acceleration options available in PVPUSD?
The two different types of opportunities are outlined below

Acceleration by Bridge Course (1-year acceleration)	Acceleration by Demonstration (2-year acceleration)
Math 6 à Math 7/8 Accel	4^th Grade Math àMath 6 Accel
Math 7à Algebra 1	5^th Grade Math à Math 7/8 Accel
	Math 6 Accel à Algebra 1 Honors

What if a student does not pass the Acceleration by Demonstration assessment?
Students who do not pass the assessment will not be allowed to skip the next course in sequence. If the opportunity is available, they may try again next year.

If a student is a 5^th grader, but has accelerated to Math 6 Accelerated, where will they take the class?
Students will be assigned a school based on their home address. Students are assigned to either Miraleste, PVIS, or Ridgecrest. The 5th graders start the morning at the middle school for period 1 math and then they go to elementary school once the class is over. They finish the day at elementary school. Families are responsible for their own transportation to and from the middle and elementary schools.

Do students who reach Advanced Calculus have a better chance of getting into college than students who reach AP Calculus BC during senior year?
Current data does not suggest that students reaching Advanced Calculus get into college at better rates than students who reach AP Calculus BC.

What is the highest math course offered in PVPUSD?

The highest math course is Advanced Calculus which is multivariable calculus.

What class does my child take if they have taken all of the math courses offered by PVPUSD?

Students who complete all math courses offered in PVPUSD may sign up for a math course outside of PVPUSD. This could be at Harbor College, El Camino, or other institution. Please remember that students may also complete math elective courses such as AP Statistics, Statistics, or Data Science.