Writing Improves Overall For America's Students; Yet Skills Decline When Critically Needed

Sylvan education expert says NAEP study shows alarming decreased proficiency

in critical high school years

BALTIMORE, April 3, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- This morning, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) released "The Nation's Report Card: Writing 2007," showing that both American 8th and 12th graders have slightly improved their writing proficiency since 2002. The study, however, shows a decrease in achievement between grades 8 and 12.

"We are pleased to see America's students are improving their writing abilities, but substantial work still needs to be done," says Richard E. Bavaria, Ph.D., senior vice president of education outreach for Sylvan Learning. "The NAEP study shows that American students still lack one of the most critical skills for college and the workforce, writing, just when they need it the most."

In grade 8, the average NAEP score in 2007 was higher than in previous years. Today's study shows 33% of 8th grade students are considered "at or above proficient" and a mere 2% at an "advanced" level. In grade 12, that total drops to 24% of students who are considered "at or above proficient" level and 1% at an advanced level (down from 2% in 2002).

The proficient scores drop approximately 9% between 8th and 12th grade. Today's study seems to underscore a 2004 National Center for Education Statistics study that reported 28% of incoming freshmen are enrolled in remedial college classes. A 2007 Cal State University system report concurs, adding nearly half of their incoming freshman scored below proficient in English placement tests.

"Even though students have improved, there appears to be a lack of writing preparation before students enter college," continues Bavaria. "It's time we challenged America's students to develop their writing skills outside of the classroom, to move beyond IMing and text messages."

To help high school students acquire these critical skills, Sylvan Learning created a College Prep Writing program that is specifically designed for the college-bound student. The program is designed to give college-bound students a solid foundation in upper-level writing.

About Sylvan Learning

Sylvan Learning is the leading provider of in-center and live, online tutoring at home to students of all ages, grades and skill levels. With approximately 30 years of experience and nearly 1,200 centers located throughout North America, Sylvan's proven process and personalized methods have inspired more than 2 million students to discover the joy of learning. Sylvan's trained and certified personal instructors provide individual instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills and test-prep for college entrance and state exams. Sylvan helps transform unique kids into uniquely inspired learners with the skills to do better in school and the confidence to do better in everything else. For more information, call 1-800-31-SUCCESS or visit http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com.