Anticipated Date of Graduation

Spring 2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences

Department

Mathematical Sciences

First Advisor

Doug Darbro

Abstract

High school students in the state of Ohio are required to meet or exceed a specific score on several standardized tests in different subjects in addition to meeting coursework requirements to receive a high school diploma. These tests are called end-of-course (EOC) exams. As the name implies, these exams are given at the end of a required high school course and are based on the state standards for that course. Although these tests are aligned with the standards being used to create the curriculum, many students do not reach the required score when completing the test the first time. This prompted research to determine which factors, other than academics, are significant in predicting which students will not earn the score needed on the Algebra 1 EOC exam for graduation. Since these tests are so high stakes, teachers and administrators wish for students to earn the needed score on the first try. The purpose of this research is to determine which students may need remedial math courses to help prepare them to reach the desired score on the Algebra 1 EOC exam on the first try rather than needing to retake the test. The results of this study were obtained through a multiple regression analysis and two linear regression analyses. The multiple regression analysis examined Algebra 1 EOC exam scores as predicted by junior high math test scores, 8th-grade attendance, 9th-grade attendance, and free lunch status. This model was then reduced using a backward regression technique. This determined which factors were the most significant predictors of Algebra 1 EOC exam scores. The linear regression analyses were then conducted, choosing individual variables from those listed to have more insight into the predictors. The results of these analyses revealed that 9th-grade attendance and junior high math test scores are the most significant predictors of Algebra 1 EOC exam scores. It was also revealed that junior high math test score was a significant predictor of Algebra 1 EOC exam scores, and free lunch status was a significant predictor of 9th-grade attendance. The

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