Academic Strategies

Academic Strategies for High Potential Learners at CMSW

 

• Flexible grouping keeps high potential learners in groups that eliminate some of the feelings of being different from peers while allowing a teacher to work with larger numbers of faster learners. In math all classes are taught in same ability groups. In Language Arts large numbers of high potential learners are grouped together which increases the level of rigor in books and other materials used. A concept can be taught in a number of levels of difficulty at the same time allowing for the differences in ability and readiness.

• Acceleration of curriculum allows students to master curriculum at their pace and provide time for learning from out of grade material. District #112 School Board has endorsed a testing out policy that shows student mastery of core curriculum resulting in students accelerating beyond grade level work. The gifted specialist and teachers then work with parents and students to ensure an appropriate educational fit.

• Compacting offers extensions in the form of independent research projects, class presentations, and projects of the students’ choice. Assessment is always done first to ensure mastery on material that is being condensed. It is our philosophy that students work up to their own potential and abilities.

• Staff development and support is ongoing on topics that include: teaching curriculum across varied ability levels, student underachievement, acquiring resources to support classroom curriculum, academic Olympiads.

• Mentor One is a year long program that students apply for in March for the next school year. Students who apply are interviewed and, if selected, job shadow with an adult mentor. The end product is a display for the Showcase of Talent . This service is provided in conjunction with the Carver Scott Educational Cooperative.

• Networking through the Minnesota Academic Excellence Foundation takes CMSW PAC students to places beyond the classroom. Several field trips are conducted every year for Hands on History Day in October, Creativity Festival in December and Bethel 's Writer's Conference in May. The cost for these is $35.00 each and students get notices in school when they are coming up.