GT Academy Newsletter
August / September 2018
Take a walk down the GTA hallway, and you will see and hear students excited about learning. Sixth graders are learning to apply the Depth and Complexity icons in World Cultures. Melanie, a sixth grader, says "We had the best time learning about landforms. We researched landforms using the icons Unanswered Questions and Over Time. We then wrote intriguing higher-level questions. After that, we had a wonderful time making models of volcanoes, atolls, straits, isthmus, peninsulas and fjords out of play dough. When we finished creating, we had a gallery walk to observe other students' work and answer the questions they wrote. The models looked amazing and we had the best time. "
GTA Math classes use the flipped classroom approach. Students are introduced to new concepts through short videos watched at home. They are expected to follow along and take notes while watching the video at home, and then discuss and apply the concept in class with their classmates and teacher. The videos can be watched several times, which can be helpful when preparing for an upcoming test or project. Parents - take a look at the links below for an overview of the flipped classroom and also quick look at ALEKS.
We are looking forward to an exciting year of learning, growing, and new experiences. Middle school is a time for students to become more independent as they develop study skills, as well as time management, organization, communication skills and friendships. Students are reminded to choose a growth mindset and show their grit when things get difficult.
Flipped Classroom and ALEKS: Introduction for Parents
Meet Your GTA Teachers:
Tips for a Successful Year
Come to class prepared.
- Come to school everyday with at least three sharpened pencils, papers in the correct folders and a good attitude.
- Most teachers post reminders at their door to tell you what other supplies you will need (book, notebook, device, etc.)
- Remember, a due date is when the assignment must be turned in. A zero is recorded in the gradebook if the assignment is not turned in that day. This is why keeping up with an updated agenda is so important!
- Graded papers go home on Thursdays. Leave graded papers at home and return your signed conduct card on Friday. Make corrections and turn them in by Monday.
Get involved.
It's also important to get involved in class. Joining in on class discussions makes learning something new more meaningful. Remember to give yourself "think time" before responding. Sometimes the best ideas come from listening to others.
Get organized.
- File papers in the correct folder in your binder. Remember OHIO - Only Handle It Once. This means don't just shove those papers anywhere. Take the time to put them where they belong the first time.
- Record homework and due dates in your agenda. You have a lot to remember now. Don't just rely on your memory. Write it down - then look at it when you get home.
- Use class time wisely. Students who develop this skill have much less (sometimes none at all) homework than those who waste time.
- You will have several big projects this year. Pay attention to due dates and chunk the big projects into smaller parts so you are not doing it all at the last minute. That's way too stressful!
Use tech responsibly.
Know your school.
Communicate with your teachers.
If you are struggling with an assignment or have a concern, let your teachers know. Ask questions. They are happy to help. All teachers answer emails, and most also communicate through Edmodo or Remind.
Exploring Interests in Mini Courses
The Gifted Guru Visits GTA
Students
Parents
Teachers
Congratulations Mrs. Needler!
Mark Your Calendar:
- Oct. 4 - STEM San Francisco trip meeting @ ESC 5:30 p.m.
- Oct. 5 - Sablatura GRIT Rally - Wear your TCU or Purdue colors.
- Oct. 8 - Columbus Day - Student holiday.
- Oct. 10 - Math Benchmark
- Oct. 11 - GTA Field Experience Day
- Oct. 19 - Sablatura Monster Bash
- Nov. 12 - Veteran's Breakfast
- Nov. 13 - GTA Parent Info Night - For prospective GTA parents. 6:30-7:30 p.m.Sab Cafeteria.
- Nov. 15 - Sablatura International Festival 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Click the link to learn more.
Click the button above for a link to more information.
Still want more? Take a look at these resources for parents and students:
- TAGT - Texas Association for Gifted and Talented
- NAGC - National Association of Gifted Children
- SENG - Social and Emotional Needs of the Gifted
- Byrdseed Gifted - Ian Byrd's website - great articles for parents, teachers and students
- The Gifted Guru - Lisa Van Gemert's website - more great articles for parents, teachers and students
- Hoagies Gifted - more articles than you can possibly read about all things gifted
- Mensa for Kids - Sponsored by the Mensa Foundation, Mensa for Kids provides free resources for teachers and parents of gifted youth.
- The Kid Should See This - smart videos for curious minds of all ages
- Ted Ed - lessons for kids worth sharing
Contact Us:
Email: muellers@pearlandisd.org
Website: https://www.pearlandisd.org/domain/420
Location: 2201 N Galveston Ave, Pearland, TX, USA
Phone: 281-412-1500
Twitter: @SabGTA