Prediction of Possible Success or Failure in Elementary Algebra

The rapid growth of our secondary school population within recent years has confronted the high school teacher with a greater range of talent than ever before. It is the duty of the schools to provide educational opportunities that promote maximum growth of all pupils and to guide each individual into a program that is appropriate for him. A knowledge of mathematics is essential in all programs of training. However, some pupils do not have the aptitude to succeed and profit from the traditional courses in mathematics, and they should be guided to courses which are designed to give them a training in mathematics which will be useful for them. On the other hand, pupils with the required aptitude should be encouraged to undertake a mathematical program which may lead to advanced work in science, engineering, and related fields. There is need for more effective procedures with which to determine the probably successes or failure of individual students in differing mathematical programs