Algebra Regents

The NYS Algebra Regents High School Examination is based on the Algebra I Common-Core Curriculum administered in New York and is intended to measure a student’s proficiency in Algebra I. By giving the same exam to all students, students throughout the state are tested fairly. The test is curved based on the performance of all students on each individual test, so a student’s grade should not be impacted by having a more difficult test than a previous test. The Common Core version of the Algebra I Regents was first administered June 3, 2014

Format of the Test

The test is three hours long and comprises four parts, which can be taken in any order.

• Part I – Multiple Choice: 24 multiple choice questions worth 2 points each. No partial credit is given.

  

• Part II – Open-Ended: 8 short answer questions worth 2 points each. Partial credit is given.

  

• Part III – Open-Ended: 4 open-ended questions worth 4 points each. Each question may have more than one part. Partial credit is given.

  

• Part IV – Open-Ended: 1 question worth 6 points. This question almost always has multiple parts to it. Partial credit is given.
  

  

Preparing for the Algebra Regents

There’s a lot that students can do to prepare for the test. The topics on the test should have been covered during the school year, so good students should be prepared for the test. However, even good students should review material from the year that appears on the test. Material covered in the beginning of the year or even more recent material is easily forgotten by many students.

Students who may not have done well during the school year can still do well on the test. Based on previous tests, many of the question types repeat. A student can study the topics that appear on the test most often and prepare for test.

With all test prep, it is advised for a student to take a practice test first and identify her strengths and weaknesses. We offer a free Algebra Regents practice test with diagnostics. If a student wants to prepare more, we also have online test prep for the Algebra Regents.

Use of a Calculator

It is important to note that calculators are permitted during the test. When preparing, a student use the calculator that she plans on using during the test, so she is familiar with it. Many answers to the test can be easily found with the use of a graphing calculator. However, students shouldn’t expect to be able to answer all of the questions with a calculator. For example, there are questions which will ask students to interpret the meaning of specific mathematical terms in a given function or to write their own functions based on given information. On the day of the test, students may be asked to clear the memory from their calculators, so they cannot store information or formulas.

Other Resources

All of the Algebra Regents that have been administered since June 3, 2014 can be found here: http://www.nysedregents.org/algebraone/, along with the answer keys and charts to convert the raw score to a scaled score.

Choosing the Best Algebra Regents Prep

Choosing the best math Regents prep class in New York involves several key considerations to ensure it aligns with your learning style, academic needs, and exam preparation goals. Here’s how to make an informed decision:

1. Assess Specific Needs: Begin by identifying which Regents exams you need to prepare for and your strengths and weaknesses in those subjects. This will help you find a prep class that focuses on areas where you need the most improvement.
2. Research Options: Look for prep classes offered by reputable educational institutions, tutoring centers, and online platforms. Investigate their track record, including pass rates and testimonials from former students. Credibility and a history of success are indicators of a worthwhile program.
3. Consider Class Format: Decide whether you prefer in-person or online classes. In-person classes offer a traditional learning environment, which might be beneficial for those who thrive on direct interaction. Online classes offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to study from anywhere at any time.
4. Evaluate the Curriculum: The best Regents prep classes provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers all the topics tested on the exam. They should offer detailed lessons, practice questions, and mock exams that mimic the format and difficulty level of the Regents.
5. Check the Qualifications of Instructors: Ensure that the instructors are experienced, knowledgeable, and skilled at teaching high school students. They should have a deep understanding of the New York State Education Department’s standards and the specific requirements of the Regents exams.
6. Look for Personalized Attention: Smaller class sizes or one-on-one tutoring options are preferable because they allow for personalized instruction. This can be crucial for addressing individual academic challenges and focusing on specific areas of improvement.
7. Consider the Schedule and Location: Make sure the class schedule fits with your other commitments. If choosing an in-person class, consider its location and how easily you can commute there.
8. Analyze the Cost: While cost should not be the only factor in your decision, it’s important to consider whether the class offers value for money. Look for classes that provide high-quality instruction and materials at a reasonable price.
9. Look for Additional Resources: Some prep classes offer extra resources, such as online libraries, video lessons, and ongoing support up to the exam date. These can be invaluable for reinforcing learning and providing additional practice.
10. Request a Trial or Sample Class: If possible, attend a trial session or review sample materials to get a feel for the teaching style and the quality of the content. This can help you decide if the class meets your expectations and learning preferences.