Elementary Happenings

So much is going on in GT at Mulberry, sometimes I feel like I'm swimming in jello!

Our 4th graders are doing two different things. First, they are part of a study I'm conducting as part of my Master's Degree program. Seven students are using the Aleks math computer program, and meeting with me weekly to do math problems, quizzes, and challenges. I want to see if the Aleks math is having a positive impact on their achievement on the MAP test.  Second, some of our other GT students are participating in a Mock Trial. The Big Bad Wolf is on trial for two counts of murder and two counts of destruction of property. The students are learning about our court system, doing research, and acting out parts of witnesses, etc. They are pretty excited, and I am, too, to see how this goes!

Our 5th graders have begun their study of Economics. We have talked about inflation, supply and demand, and TANSTAAFL (ask them what that means). They will all be working on projects for the Economics Fair in March to display their knowledge of economics. Some projects may have to do with careers, some more historical, some will focus on money, and some will just amaze you! Can't wait!

3rd graders are finishing up the PETS curriculum. I am hoping to move them into more math and writing this spring. Stay tuned for that change.

1st and 2nd graders are not officially identified as gifted and talented, so I work with quite a number of students from each grade level. Some of these students see me for only one day/week for only several weeks, while others see me for longer periods of times. We consider preK-2nd grade a time for students to develop, and it's a time for the GT specialist at each building to observe, and work with the classroom teacher supporting higher learners. If your child was seeing me, but is no longer, that's ok. Feel free to call me if you have questions or concerns.

I will be going into kindergarten classrooms soon this winter/spring and making observations, and doing critical thinking lessons.