Tuesday, December 24, 2013
FAYETTEVILLE — Geometry students at Ramay Junior High School can pat themselves on the back for a job well done on Arkansas Benchmark exams given between 2007 and 2013. Their work resulted in recognition from the University of Arkansas Office of Education Policy as one of the most improved in math performance.
There is no money with the recognition, but the list, compiled annually at the university, “shows support and encouragement of schools where great work is done,” said Gary Ritter, professor and director of the education policy office.
The award reflects the growth in performance in those six years, Ritter said. The recognition list was released on Dec. 4.
“This speaks highly of the kids. They put their effort into these tests,” said Emily
Recognition List
Test scores from schools across Arkansas are reviewed by the education policy office to develop an annual list of schools in several different categories, including end-of-course exams in algebra, geometry and biology. Other junior high schools in the most improved category with Ramay Junior High School are: Chaffin and Kimmons junior high schools in Fort Smith, Hot Springs Middle Schools, Green County Tech, Greenwood, Booneville, Ozark, Vilonia and Pocahontas junior high schools.
Source: Office Of Education Policy, University of Arkansas.
Gammill, who teaches Algebra I and II and geometry at Ramay. “We tell them their number one goal is to think outside the box.”
Geometry differs from the math courses the students have had up to the point they are in a geometry class.
“It’s very visual,” Gammill said. “It’s not just a process. It’s applying the process to something visual, like bridging the gap. Students struggle with that aspect.”
All students who have taken geometry have consistently scored at or above grade level — listed as proficient or advanced — for the last four years, according to test scores posted on the Arkansas Department of Education website.
One of her students, Alex Gershon, 14, and in the ninth grade, said, “It’s like a puzzle and getting all the pieces to fit together. It’s easy if you know what you are doing.”
A classmate, Emma Armendariz, also 14 and in the ninth grade, said the visual aspect is better for herself. “I struggled last year because I am more of a visual learner.”
Emma’s advice to students coming up behind her: “Ask questions, stay organized and know there are always people there to turn to.”
Aiden Smith, a ninth-grader, took geometry a year ago in the class that put Ramay over the top in its geometry scores.
“It doesn’t surprise me,” Smith said, when told of the school’s recognition for its geometry performance.
“She’s a good teacher,” Smith said. “For me, she made it black and white, not just shapes and colors.”
Smith took geometry as an eighth-grader after taking Algebra I in the seventh grade at Holt Middle School. “It was the next step forward,” he said.
When he goes to Fayetteville High School, Aiden will take Algebra II and probably pre-calculus and trigonometry. That leaves room for college algebra and the potential for college credit before he leaves high school.
“Growth for all our students is a major goal. It is an honor for Ramay and Fayetteville schools to be recognized with this award,” said Ellen Johnson, director of K-12 mathematics for Fayetteville schools.
“Geometry is important in everyday real world applications, but it helps students develop logical reasoning and deductive thinking skills,” Johnston said.