GREAT THINKING THURSDAY
For Klein ISD Educators of Gifted Learners
Gifted Behavior in the Classroom
by Carrie Raiyawa
AA Program Coordinator
It is that time of year again! The weather is getting cooler, the holiday decorations are up, and the kiddos are getting restless! As a teacher, I remember seeing even the “good” kids get restless this time of year. My first year with gifted students, I was shocked at some of the behavior I experienced from these kids. I was told they were smart, so they shouldn’t be acting out, right? Turns out gifted learners have social and emotional needs in the classroom as well, and if those needs are not being met, they act out too! And while the strategies I learned through my 30 foundational hours could work with all types of children, they worked especially well with my GT learners.
I know we reference Ian Byrd a lot in Great Thinking Thursday, but it is because it is so helpful! I recently read an article called, “Four Ways To Reduce Behavior Problems,” that I think sums up what it takes to successfully teach gifted learners. You, as a gifted teacher, know that these students are not always well behaved, and sometimes we need to take a step back to be sure their needs are being met in our classrooms. This article is a great reminder of how wonderful it can be teaching gifted learners, as long as we understand them.
The Lights of Saint Lucia
Common Lit Lessons: The Lights of Saint Lucia
In this short story, two sisters have important morning traditions for Saint Lucia Day. Saint Lucia Day is a festival of light to celebrate a Saint. It is celebrated on December 13, most commonly in Sweden.
As students read, have them take notes on Eva and Britta’s traditions for Saint Lucia Day.storyfab: Hollywood is Coming to A Phone Near You!
Check it Out!
by Jessica Jasper
AA Program Coordinator
See my quick storyfab below!
By Kathleen Plott
Instructional Officer, Advanced Academics
Teachers of juniors: The School Day SAT is March 6, 2019! AA Program Coordinator, Imee Villarreal will meet with high school Advanced Academics Leadership Teams with PSAT score sheet review plans, implementation guides, instructional strategies, a parent information/review session on January 17, 2019 and more! Preview this 6 week plan today!
How to Make a 3D Pop Up Christmas Card
Gift Guide Part 2:
Carie Barber
AA Program Coordinator
Need a cool gift to challenge your gifted learners? Check out these suggestions from some experts in gifted education.