Module 7: Computation of the Acadian Math Essentials

Introduction to Basic Computation

• Basic computation includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Essential for math achievement, especially in fourth grade where 40% of NAEP assessments focus on number properties and operations.

Importance

• Low proficiency among students in NAEP results (2011 and recent).
• Computation skills are crucial for overall math achievement.

Computation Measure Design

• Standardized measure assessing basic computation skills.
• Domains covered:
  • Operations and algebraic thinking.
  • Numbers and operations in base 10.
  • Numbers and operations with fractions.
  • Number system.
• Assessment includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals depending on grade level.

Research and Development

• Studies conducted to determine problem creation rules and optimal timing.
• Timed assessments ensure measurement of growth rather than completion.
• Consistency in problem difficulty across worksheets.

Problem Creation Rules

• Problems stratified to control difficulty levels.
• Randomized number selection within set ranges.

Administration

• Time ranges from 2 to 6 minutes per worksheet.
• Administered from first to sixth grade.
• No weight or discontinue rule due to group administration.

Benchmark Goals and Scoring

• Benchmark goals set by grade, score level, and support needs.
• Scores categorized as above, at, below, or well below benchmark.
• Scoring based on correct digits in the final answer.

Scoring Guidelines

• Correct digits must be completely correct to receive full points.
• Scoring direction: right to left for addition, subtraction, multiplication; left to right for division.
• Extra and erased digits, decimals, fractions, and remainders have specific scoring rules.

Administration Process

• Use of specific instructions and monitoring during testing.
• Group administration but flexibility for individual administration if needed.
• Materials needed include student worksheets, teacher key, stopwatch, and pencils.

Scoring Rules in Detail

• Each problem scored based on a standard direction arrow.
• Points vary by problem complexity.
• Special rules for fractions, decimals, and division.

Response Pattern Analysis

• Optional analysis to identify areas needing improvement.
• Helps in understanding students' thought processes and errors.

Practice and Review

• Exercises to practice scoring and analyze student skills.
• Use of response pattern analysis to identify instructional needs.

Conclusion

• Emphasis on correct digits and direction for scoring.
• Importance of understanding and using scoring rules for accurate assessment and instructional guidance.