2011 NAEP Results for Mathematics

On November 1, the National Center for Education Statistics released the 2011 mathematics assessment results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), otherwise known as the “Nation’s Report Card.”  The assessment, which is administered every two years to fourth- and eighth-graders throughout the country, did show gains over the 2009 assessment and achieved the highest scores we have seen since the study began in 1990.  In a news release, David P. Driscoll, chair of the National Assessment Governing Board, commented, “We applaud all students and teachers for their impressive and consistent gains in math achievement.”

Indeed, there was a significant increase from 2009 in the percentage of students scoring at or above Proficient; however, only 40% of fourth-graders and 35% of eight-graders achieved proficiency.  Meanwhile, the number of students below Basic remained the same as in 2009: 18% for fourth-graders and a staggering 27% for eight-graders. 

On a more positive note, the scores for fourth-grade Black and Hispanic students, in addition to White students, significantly increased over 2009.  For eighth-graders, scores for Hispanic and female students significantly increased over 2009.  It is important to note, however, that racial and gender gaps still persisted.  Although some of these gaps narrowed slightly for fourth- and eighth-graders, the gap for White and Black students, White and Hispanic students, and males and females remained significant. 

For more detailed information on the 2011 NAEP results, check out the full report.  You can also visit the NAEP website to access a “snapshot” of results in your particular state.