Flexible Ability Grouping

Instruction methods at American Academy focus on the idea that not all students start at the same level, learn in the same way, or master skills at the same pace. Flexible ability grouping is used to address the needs of all students, and to challenge them to stretch their abilities and master new skills.

Every student at American Academy is assessed in several subjects throughout the school year including mathematics, reading, writing, and science. The students are divided into groups based on academic ability, learning style and other factors. Each group is challenged with concepts and skills appropriate to their readiness level. Each and every group raises the bar for kids, requiring them to stretch themselves to meet expectations. Continuing assessments throughout the year are used to validate or change placement.

Reading Group Placement

Reading group placement is determined by a triangular evaluation that includes CSAP Reading and Writing (4th grade and up), Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) Reading assessments (2nd grade and up), the DRA2 and AimsWeb assessments (all grades), and prior year history (grades and teacher recommendations). As the year goes on, we continue to evaluate placement and will make adjustments as needed.

Reading Group Definitions

• Intervention: Small group instruction to students performing below grade level or to students who would benefit from increased direct instruction. Necessary interventions to achieve proficiency will be provided.
• Supported: Specialized group instruction to students performing at grade level with increased direct instruction to ensure appropriate challenge and growth.
• Standard: Conventional group instruction to solidly performing students with appropriate challenge to ensure continued growth.
• Standard Advanced: Accelerated instruction to high performing students with appropriate challenge and rigor.

Math Group Placement

Math group placement is determined by a triangular evaluation that includes prior year Saxon level, CSAP Math (4th grade and up), and Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) Math assessments (2nd grade and up), and Saxon assessments given before school (if applicable). As the year goes on, we continue to evaluate placement and will make adjustments as needed.

Math Group Definitions

• Intervention: Small group instruction to students performing below grade level or to students who would benefit from increased direct instruction. Necessary interventions to achieve proficiency will be provided.
• Supported: Specialized group instruction to students performing at grade level with increased direct instruction to ensure appropriate challenge and growth.
• Standard: Students performing at grade-level with appropriate challenge to ensure continued growth.
• Accelerated: Above level curriculum to an entire class of students at the same grade level (e.g. a class of all 2nd graders in Math 3).