Hello Alberta Parents, by now you may have heard the latest result of the Pan-Canadian Assessment of Mathematics, Reading and Science. The PCAP 2019 report shows how Alberta’s grade 8 students’ math performance compared to its Canadian peers: we (Alberta) perform at the Canadian average. Not bad, huh? Well, instead of celebrating, now is the time to reflect upon this.
This assessment was taken in 2019; hopefully the next report we can be above the Canadian mean – despite the learning disruption from the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Yes, improved position, not just the same. Because if you take a closer look, it just measures the acceptable performance level, which is down to Level II (detail what each level means, is explained in the report) which reflects minimum proficiency.
Let’s bring it to individual context. Some students are happy to get C or B in math as that is the average grade in their class. Well, to have B means you have 20% gaps of math skills. Do nothing about it, you’d feel that the next level’s math will be more difficult to understand and it will have a snowball effect and makes the gap bigger, and you may get just C next year. We’ve seen this all the time.
To illustrate, here is a true story. There were two students – both were in grade 7; one had C grade and the other one had D – the average grade in both students’ classes was C. Both then came to us to catch up their math level. Both improved. The C student then got B – aimed to get A and maintained his good work ethic. The D student got C, so happy that he was now an average student and gave just minimal effort during his sessions – which was unfortunate because we knew he had so much potential. The improved grade had given him false confidence.
Be aware that complacency breeds mediocrity and steals potential. As soon as you see your child struggle, please take action – as it could get worse over the time. Don’t waste time – or time will waste you.
Mathnasium of Red Deer can help your child to catch up – and that’s why we are here! Stop by or call us and find out how we can help. We are conveniently located at the Gaetz Avenue Crossing shopping centre, in the same area as Chapters Indigo, Michael Arts, Petland and Ashley. Our phone number is 403-872 MATH (6284). See you soon!
(403) 872-6284
