Achievement gap is the difference in performance as compared to their peers betweenstudents with different levels of maternal education?

That's partially true, but not the complete picture. The achievement gap is a broader term referring to the disparity in academic performance between different groups of students. While maternal education level is *one* factor contributing to the achievement gap, it's not the only one. Other factors include:

* Socioeconomic status (SES): This encompasses income, occupation, and access to resources. Students from lower SES backgrounds often face challenges that impact their academic success.

* Race and ethnicity: Significant disparities exist in academic achievement across racial and ethnic groups, often linked to historical and ongoing systemic inequities.

* Geographic location: Access to quality schools and resources varies greatly depending on location, leading to disparities in achievement.

* Gender: While the gap has narrowed in some areas, differences in academic performance between genders still exist in certain subjects.

* Special needs: Students with disabilities or learning differences may face unique challenges in accessing appropriate support and achieving their potential.

* Parental involvement: The level of parental involvement in a child's education can significantly impact their academic success. This isn't limited to maternal involvement.

Therefore, while maternal education is a *component* of the achievement gap, it's more accurate to define the achievement gap as the disparity in academic performance among various student groups based on a combination of these and other factors.