ANDERSON COUNTY — Anderson School District One middle and high school students scored among the top of the state on the end of course exams.

But both the physical science and English I score averages fell from last year.

The tests measure student achievement on the content-based standards of algebra I, English I, physical science and U.S. history. The scores not only measure overall progress but count as 20 percent of the student’s final grade in each course.

Algebra I average scores for 2009 are 87.8, up from last year’s 85.6. The 2009 state score is 79.1.

But both English and physical science scores dropped, but remained higher than the statewide average. While the average score for the state English I test was 75.5, Anderson One students averaged an 80.2.

Physical science scores were 75.0 for the district, and 72.5 for the state.

The district average in U.S. history was 70.2, slightly higher than the state average of 69.4.

“The EOC state exams are considered to be among the most rigorous exams of their kind across the country,” Anderson One Superintendent Wayne Fowler said. “Our teachers are dedicated to teach the standards and it is demonstrated by scores that are above the state average. Approximately 96 percent of our students passed the Algebra I end of course test. We are pleased with these results. We will continue to improve instructional techniques that engage students with the curriculum standards for these courses.”