Fourth Grade Reading and Math
As the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores show, Virginia fourth-graders as a group exceed the national average in reading and math.
Why is This Important?
The increase in student achievement since adoption of the Standards of Learning (SOL) in 1995 is confirmed by the performance of Virginia students on the NAEP, also known as the "Nation's Report Card." Performance on fourth grade reading and math assessments predict success in future grades.
How is Virginia Doing?
In 2007, Virginia ranked sixth in reading and tied with 4 other states for 14th in math on the fourth grade NAEP test. The national averages for reading and math were 220 and 239 out of 500 respectively. In reading, Virginia's score of 227 was better than its three peer states: North Carolina (218), Maryland (225), and Tennessee (216).
In math, Virginia's score of 244 in 2007 was an improvement from its score in 2005 of 241. Virginia's score in math also outperformed North Carolina (242), Maryland (240), and Tennessee (233). Massachusetts in 2007 posted both the highest reading score at 236 and the highest math score at 252 in the nation.
What Influences Fourth Grade Reading and Math Scores?
Adoption of the SOL accountability program and improvement in the quality of instruction in Virginia's public schools have both influenced student achievement in all subject areas and on a variety of national tests, including the NAEP.
What is the State's Role?
The state's role in promoting student achievement is to provide rigorous academic standards, promote effective instruction and encourage accountability for results at every level.
Data Definitions and Sources
US Dept of Education, 2007
nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard
Both reading and math are scored out of 500 possible points.
See the Data Sources and Updates Calendar for a detailed list of the data resources used for indicator measures on Virginia Performs.
