Mrs. Thompson's Dec. 2016 GE News
Rush Creek Elementary
Greetings GE Families!
DECEMBER NEEDS BASED CLASSES
3rd Grade Non-Verbal Class
Non-Verbal Class-K'Nex Bridges
Students will know the following:
- How “load” affects the strength of bridge structures
Students will understand the following:
- Trusses strengthen beam bridge structures
- The strength of a truss comes from its triangular shape
Students will be able to (do):
- Modify a structure to increase its strength
- Successfully work as part of a team to complete assigned investigations
- Use creative thinking, critical thinking, and problem solving to design and build load-bearing K’NEX bridges
4th Grade Quantitative Class
Quantitative class-Would You Rather
Students will know the following:
- Math can be used to answer questions of choice that are a part of everyday life.
Students will understand the following:
- Tables, bar graphs, timelines and diagrams that can be used to display data.
Students will be able to (do):
- Analyze data by organizing, displaying and interpreting it.
5th Grade NonVerbal
Non-Verbal-Lego Mindstorms
Students will know the following:
- Steps in the Scientific method.
- How to interpret LEGO directions that lead to the construction of a robot.
- Distinguishing characteristics of LEGO parts.
- Steps in sequential programming.
Students will understand the following:
- Details (parts and actions) in a schematic diagram are essential for creating a robot that is able to perform pre-determined tasks.
- There is a strong correlation between observed details and analysis for problem-solving.
- The robot developer is responsible for programming commands to activate a response in the robot.
Students will be able to (do):
- Systematically organize, maintain, and be responsible for parts and materials.
- Build a robot according to a plan.
- Program a LEGO robot for planned “work,” (i.e., the action events are not random.)
- Demonstrate persistence through the trial and error (empirical) process.
- Create a programming document demonstrating an increasing progression of complexity.
Parent Open Houses for Non-Verbal Seminars of LEGO Robotics and K'nex Bridges!
Grade 3 K'NEX Open House - Friday, January 6th 1:20 - 1:50 (Students recess time)
Media Center
Grade 5 LEGO Robotics Open Houses -
Tuesday's Group: January 10th 11:30-12:05 (right before lunch)
Wednesday's Group: January 11 11:30-12:05 (right before lunch)
*Back hallway - Room 302 (computer lab)
Please sign in at the office. Thank you!
Who Knew?!
Students who may need Gifted Education Quantitative classes may show evidence of the following abilities:
- Multiple Intelligence strength in logical reasoning/math
- Strong academic performance and/or potential, particularly in math (Evidence may include math RIT score, MCA score, classroom performance)
- Makes distinction between minute logical inconsistencies
- Pairs logical and creative thinking to solve problems
- Strong interest in math computation, problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and/or complex patterns
Students who may need Gifted Education Non-Verbal classes may show evidence of the following abilities
- Multiple Intelligence strength in visual/spatial, logic, and/or bodily kinesthetic
- Sequencing skills
- Pattern recognition
- Constructive problem-solving
- Hands-on processing
- Communication with pictures, images and/or large gestures
- Makes distinction between minute visual differences
- Pairs logical and creative thinking to solve problems
HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS FOR GIFTED CHILDREN
Looking for a gift idea for the holidays, a birthday, or other special occasion? The following links have some great options for gifted, high performing, creative, and brainy kids!
http://www.nagc.org/resources-publications/resources-parents/games-and-toys-gifted-children
http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/shopping_guide.htm
http://www.mindware.com/?ploc=9019681&gclid=CNKfq5Xyu8kCFQ-RaQoddQgCEA
Grade 4 Perennial Math Competition
These students include:
Super 6: Raegan Fritts, Gabe Hockett, Ryan Kasbohm & Oliver Walseth
Fab 5: Colin Ames, Cooper Hensel, Max Matveiciuc, Max Miley, Grant Sandel & Michael Wagner
Congratulations to Zak S. for a perfect score on the first Wordmaster Meet! Zak is a 3rd grader in Mrs. Hritzko's classroom.
Grade 3 "Maddy EInsteins"
Grade 3 Math Maniacs
Grade 4 Pokemon Fan Club
Grade 5 Fermi: Team Chewbacca
Glitter Sprinkles
Pup Cakes
GE District Parent Forums
Many parents are enjoying the parent forums that are being offered this year! The purpose of these meetings is to provide parent support for students participating in gifted education needs based classes. These sessions are facilitated by Kris Happe and other #279 Gifted Education Teachers. All meetings will be held at Oak View Elementary and will be from 6:00-7:30 pm. Childcare for children 4+ years will be provided. If you were unable to attend the last session the presentation information is in a link below.
Upcoming sessions:
February 28th
Topic Focus: We will discuss summer enrichment opportunities, digital programs offerings and Advanced Academic Programs.
April 25
Topic Focus: To be determined
May 23rd
Topic Focus: How to help your family/child fit in when necessary and how to be the protector and advocate for your child at school, AND with your family and friends.
Have a wonderful Holiday Break!!
Contacting Laura Thompson
Phone 763-494-4549 Ext. 83131
Gifted Education Resources:
Hoagies' Gifted Education Page: www.hoagiesgifted.org
National Association for Gifted Children: www.nagc.org
Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG): www.sengifted.org