How to Read a Math Readiness Heat Map
SlopeFactor's teacher dashboard includes a heat map showing how each student in a section is performing across every MCAP Algebra I evidence statement. The heat map is designed to answer one question quickly: where should I focus my limited instructional time?
What the Heat Map Shows
The heat map is a grid. Rows represent students. Columns represent the 15 MCAP Algebra I evidence statement categories — A-REI, A-CED, A-SSF, F-IF, F-BF, F-LE, S-ID, N-RN, and N-Q.
Each cell shows a readiness signal for one student on one evidence statement, based on that student's completed mission attempts within that category.
How Cells Are Colored
Green — the student is meeting or exceeding the proficiency threshold for this evidence statement. They have attempted a meaningful number of items and their accuracy rate is above target.
Yellow — the student has some exposure to this evidence statement but has not yet reached the proficiency threshold. They may need targeted review or additional practice time in this category.
Red — the student is below the proficiency threshold or has not yet reached the minimum number of attempts to establish a reliable signal. This cell requires attention.
Gray — the student has not yet attempted any items in this evidence statement category. This is a coverage gap, not a performance signal.
How to Act on What You See
A red column — when most or all students show red in the same evidence statement, that is a whole-class instructional gap. Address it in direct instruction before the next assessment window.
A red row — when one student shows red across many evidence statements while classmates are green and yellow, that student may need a different level of support. The heat map does not replace a conversation with the student, but it gives you a specific starting point.
Isolated red cells — scattered red cells with no clear row or column pattern are normal variance. Encourage students with isolated reds to complete additional missions in those specific categories.
Gray cells — gray is a priority concern when assessment time is approaching. A student who has never practiced an evidence statement category cannot be assessed on it. Encourage coverage before depth.
Using the Heat Map for Small-Group Instruction
Because every cell maps to a specific evidence statement, the heat map makes it straightforward to group students. Students who share a yellow or red cell in the same column — the same evidence statement — are natural candidates for a small-group review session focused on that content.
This kind of targeted small-group instruction, informed by actual performance data, is more efficient than reviewing content the whole class has already mastered.
What the Heat Map Does Not Show
The heat map does not rank students against each other. It does not show absolute scores. It is not a replacement for classroom observation, conversation, or formal assessment. It is one diagnostic signal — useful precisely because it is specific, current, and tied directly to what the MCAP will measure.