Frequently Asked Questions: The End of Course Exam
What is the End of Course Exam?
The End of Course Exam, or EOC, is a test you will take to show how much Algebra you
have learned this year.
When do we take it?
You will take the test in the beginning of May.
What does it cover?
The EOC will cover everything we learn from August until May. The questions are
multiple choice and will range from very easy to very hard.
Who else takes this test?
Everyone who is taking Algebra 1 in the state of Tennessee will take the same test. That
way, the state can tell how much you know compared to every other 9th grader in
Tennessee.
How is the test graded?
Every question on the test will be graded and the state will determine how many
questions you got correct. Based on the number of questions you answered correctly,
they will rank you in one of 4 categories:
Advanced
_ _ _ _ Proficient _ _ _ _
Basic
Below Basic
What do each of the categories mean?
Advanced: You know all of the Algebra content and are ready to move on to Geometry.
Proficient: You know most of the Algebra content and are ready to move on to
Geometry.
Basic: You know some of the Algebra content but may have trouble in Geometry.
Below Basic: You know a little of the Algebra content but may not be ready for
Geometry.
How do you “pass” the EOC?
Technically, you pass the EOC if you are scored in the Advanced or Proficient category.
Basic and Below Basic are NOT considered passing scores.
Does this count for my grade?
Yes, the EOC counts as 25% of your final grade in the class. That is a big percentage – it
means that it is important that you do your best work and show everything you have
learned this year!
What happens if you fail the EOC?
If you receive basic or below basic on the EOC, 25% of your semester grade will be a
failing grade (something below 70). If your average is high enough, you may still pass for
the semester and move on to 10th grade. Usually, though, if you do not pass the EOC,
you will have to retake Algebra 1 and will not be able to move to 10th grade until you
have passed the course.
How do I prepare for the EOC?
We will work together in class to prepare for the EOC. You will take practice tests and
we will set aside several days for review, as well as hold after school tutoring sessions.
You are encouraged to study on your own, also, and as the test draws closer, I will give
you a list of websites and worksheets that will be helpful to study from. For now, try
these:
http://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/doc/AYPEOCALG1_IS.pdf
http://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/doc/EOC_AlgI_PT.pdf
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=ZGVmYXVsdGRvbWFpbnxtcnNyd
WJyaWdodHxneDo2NWJmZWU4MTQyMWM0NWM2
Is the EOC really such a big deal?
Yes, your EOC score does not just determine your end of year score and whether you
can move on to 10th grade, but it also affects our school’s grade. Just as you are graded
in classes, our school gets graded based on how well you do. If everyone fails the EOC,
Cane Ridge fails the state’s test. If we fail the test, we lose many of the privileges we
have and start having a lot more work because people are worried that you are not
learning what you are supposed to. The better you do on the EOC, the better it is for
you as a student and for the whole school!