Math
CCMS Math Department
Middle School Math Pathways
Both math pathways cover the Common Core State Standards ensuring strong conceptual mathematical understanding.
- Grade-Level Math Pathway: offers a rigorous curriculum that meets the University of California A-G math requirements.
- Accelerated Math Pathway: moves at a much quicker pace in order to provide access to four years of course curriculum (Math 6, Math 7, Math 8, Algebra) in three years at the middle school.
Historically, students who have been successful in the accelerated math pathway have outstanding numerical fluency, work habits, and strong mathematical thinking. Moving at a suitable pace is crucial to ensuring long-term success in mathematics. Your child should enter the pathway that will lead to the best long-term success and enjoyment of mathematics.
Students who are generally successful in the accelerated math pathway…
- Grasp concepts quickly with little re-teaching necessary.
- Demonstrate well-developed number sense.
- Are excited about new problems and challenges in mathematics.
- Show enthusiasm and perseverance in problem solving.
- Are able to apply skills and concepts to new and non-routine situations.
- Exhibit excellent work habits and study skills.
- Are independent and self-motivated learners.
Accelerated Math Placement Testing
INCOMING 6TH GRADE STUDENTS: Testing for Accelerated Math 6
CCUSD Students:
- 5th grade CCUSD students will be placed into Math 6 or Accelerated Math 6 based on their i-Ready Math Diagnostic scores from the winter as follows:
- Students scoring mid-5th grade or above will be placed into Accelerated Math 6
- Students scoring in early-5th grade or below will be placed into Math 6
- If a student is placed into Math 6, families may choose to opt their student into Accelerated Math 6 by completing a waiver form sent by the school counselor.
Non-CCUSD Students:
- Incoming 6th grade students from outside of CCUSD will need to complete a one-hour placement test that covers Common Core 5th grade math standards. The test will be given on the following dates:
- August 13, 2026 from 1:00 - 2:30 pm at CCMS
- MAKEUP TEST ONLY: August 25, 2026 from 2:30 - 4:00 pm in Room 322
INCOMING 7TH AND 8TH GRADE STUDENTS: Testing for Accelerated Math 7 or Algebra
TESTING INFORMATION
Incoming 7th and 8th grade students who have earned an A in their grade level math class and demonstrated satisfactory work habits throughout the year may choose to take a placement test to show readiness for the Accelerated Math Pathway. Please note that this option will require additional study and preparation outside of school, as the prerequisite standards are not taught in the grade level math pathway. The following practice packets provide sample questions for students to use to better understand these prerequisite skills.
Readiness for Accelerated Math 7
TESTING DATES
Incoming 7th and 8th grade students may choose to move from the grade-level math pathway to the accelerated math pathway by passing a placement test given at CCMS on the following dates:
- June 4, 2026 from 2:30 - 4:00 pm in Room 322
- August 13, 2026 from 1:00 - 2:30 pm at CCMS
- Note: this test is during the summer on the same day as 6th grade registration.
Students are highly encouraged to test prior to the start of school to ensure that they begin the school year with an accurate schedule. However, if a student is not able to attend the summer test date, a makeup test will be offered during the second week of school:
- MAKEUP TEST ONLY: August 25, 2026 from 2:30 - 4:00 pm in Room 322
SIGN UP FORM
If you are an incoming 7th or 8th grade CCMS student wishing to take the placement test for Accelerated Math 7 or Algebra, please complete the Math Placement Test Sign Up Form.