Exploring school data on the Algebra 2/ Trigonometry regents exam over the last 3 years.

A PPA Approach

Ms. Etukudo

Harry S Truman High School

Aim: How can we improve test scores in mathematics?

DO NOW

Based on the data given below provide three sentences that describe your observations.

% Students at or above 65 on a given regents exam

2009-2010

2010-2011

2011-2012

Algebra 2/Trigonometry

26% 26% 34%

“A public policy is a government action usually intended to deal with a social problem…The six versions of the Public Policy Analyst (PPA) will guide you through the problem solving skills necessary to study historical and current American and global public policy issues.”

1. Define the problem 2. Gather evidence 3. Identify causes 4. Evaluate a policy 5. Develop solutions 6. Select best solution Select the link below to explore the meaning of a social problemWhat is a social problem?

Using the PPA Method to analyze this Issue:

Task: In your groups complete Worksheet#1

Click on the link below then select Worksheet1:”Defining the social problem” (MSWORD)

http://www2.maxwell.syr.edu/plegal/TIPS/select.html

PPA Step 1Defining the problem:

Low test scores in mathematics

PPA Step 2Gathering Evidence

TASK: Do some research and find evidence to support your observations.

Use Worksheet2 as a guide (Click on the link below to access the worksheet)

http://www2.maxwell.syr.edu/plegal/TIPS/gather.html

What factors contribute to poor performance on mathematics exams?

Task: Use Worksheet3 as a guide to provide evidence to support the causes of low test scores in mathematics.

(Click on the link below to access the worksheet)

http://www2.maxwell.syr.edu/plegal/TIPS/identify.html

PPA Step 3Identifying the cause of the problem

What school policies are currently in place to improve test scores in mathematics for parents and students?

Task: Use worksheet 4 as a guide

(Click on the link below to access the worksheet)

http://www2.maxwell.syr.edu/plegal/TIPS/existing.html

PPA Step 4Evaluate Policy

Task: Brainstorm and come up with feasible solutions that address the initial problem or modifications to existing policies that are currently in place.

(Click on the link below to access worksheet5)

http://www2.maxwell.syr.edu/plegal/TIPS/solutions.html

PPA Step 5Develop Solution

Task: Using the matrix on worksheet#6, analyze all the policies and choose one (the best policy) that represents the best solution to the problem. Feasibility and Effectiveness will help you determine the best policy . (Click on the link below to access worksheet6)

PPA Step 6Select the Best Solution

Feasibility Effectiveness

How likely will your policy be adopted by the government or government agency? Will it be widely accepted in the school by most of the students, parents and staff?Are the benefits worth the costs?

Will your policy produce results that increase math scores?

http://www2.maxwell.syr.edu/plegal/TIPS/bestsol.html

How do you intend to improve your math test scores based on this activity? What do you intend to do differently? How can you apply this to improve test scores in other subject areas? What other public policy issues do you plan to address moving forward?

Summary and Conclusion