Science and Engineering Indicators 2014

Map

U.S. map and list of abbreviation

Findings

• In 2011, 40% of fourth grade public school students nationwide performed at or above the proficient level in mathematics, an increase from 31% in 2003.
• Of the 51 jurisdictions that participated in both the 2003 and 2011 fourth grade mathematics assessments, 50 showed increases in mathematics proficiency among public school fourth graders over the period.
• Nationally, the percentage of fourth grade white public school students demonstrating proficient performance in mathematics was 52% in 2011 compared to 17% for black students, a gap of 35 percentage points, and 24% for Hispanic students, a gap of 28 percentage points, based upon racial classifications provided by the schools. In 2003, these gaps were 32 and 27 points, respectively, indicating that these demographic gaps are not shrinking.

Description

This indicator represents the proportion of a state’s fourth grade students in public schools that has met or exceeded the proficiency standard in mathematics. The National Assessment Governing Board sets performance standards that provide a context for interpreting National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results. The standards define “proficiency” as well as “advanced” and “basic” accomplishment. For the fourth grade, the proficient level (scores 249–281) represents solid academic performance and demonstrates competency over challenging subject-matter knowledge. The advanced level (282–500) signifies superior performance. The basic level (214–248) denotes partial mastery of knowledge and skills that are prerequisite for proficient work. The National Center for Education Statistics has determined that achievement levels should be used on a trial basis and interpreted with caution.

Approximately 210,000 fourth grade students in 8,500 schools participated in the 2011 NAEP mathematics assessment. Students with disabilities or limited English-language proficiency are allowed to use certain accommodations (e.g., extra testing time or individual rather than group administration). All data presented here represent scores from tests taken with accommodations offered. For additional details on NAEP scores by gender and race/ethnicity, see appendix tables 8-1 to 8-12.

Data Table

Source Data

State Data Tool

The state data tool allows interactive exploration of the 58 indicators in this chapter. Users have the ability to choose and explore a single indicator in-depth, compare multiple indicators for preselected groups, customize their own graphics, or download data tables. Click the button below to get started.