As your child begins middle school, you may be wondering about opportunities for them to take advanced coursework in math and science. Here in Round Rock ISD, Accelerated Math and Science Pathways are designed to challenge students who are ready for rigorous coursework and prepare them for high-level math and science courses in high school and beyond.
What Are the Accelerated Pathways?
Accelerated Math
Students on the accelerated math pathway move through content at a faster pace, covering material from multiple grade levels in one year.
There are two levels of accelerated math in middle school:
- Accel I – Covers all 6th-grade math TEKS and part of 7th-grade math TEKS. Students take the 6th-grade STAAR math assessment.
- Accel II – Covers part of 7th-grade math TEKS and all 8th-grade math TEKS. Students take the 8th-grade STAAR math assessment.
Depending on the chosen pathway, students then progress to high school courses including Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II, Precalculus, and can access advanced options like AP Calculus or Statistics.
Accelerated Science
The accelerated science pathway similarly allows students to advance at a quicker pace, covering essential concepts earlier than traditional pathways.
- 6th Grade – Science Accel I or TAG Science Accel I
- 7th Grade – Science Accel II or TAG Science Accel II. Students take the 8th-grade STAAR science assessment.
- 8th Grade – Physics or TAG Physics
This pathway leads students to high school courses including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and various AP or OnRamps science courses. Notably, 8th-grade physics follows new TEKS written at a 9th-grade level, ensuring students are well-prepared for future science studies.
Benefits of Accelerated Pathways
- Rigorous coursework tailored to student abilities and interests
- Less need to “double up” on science courses in high school
- More flexibility in high school schedules for additional advanced courses
- Opportunities for college credit, performance acknowledgments, and early graduation
Who Can Enroll?
- Open enrollment – Any student interested in accelerated math or science can opt in.
- Automatic enrollment – The district uses assessment data to pre-identify and enroll incoming 6th grade students for the Math Accel I pathway, but parents and students can discuss placement options. Students participating in 5th grade TAG math services (Math Accel I) will be automatically enrolled in Math Accel II.
Important Considerations
- Students should choose a pathway that matches their interests and abilities to ensure long-term success.
- If a student struggles in 6th grade, they can return to an on-level course pathway in 7th grade.
- 6th-grade students in accelerated pathways are not impacted by UIL’s “No Pass, No Play” rules, giving them time to adjust to the pace and rigor.
Final Thoughts
As parents, it’s important to consider whether an accelerated pathway is the right fit for your child. While these courses provide fantastic opportunities, they also require a strong commitment to staying engaged in challenging coursework.
If you have any questions about the Accelerated Math and Science Pathways, please reach out to your child’s middle school for more information!