AIG Parent Newsletter
Updates for Parents and Resources for their Curious Learners
Math
We have used our math pullout time to teach our students complex mathematical calculations and real-world math applications. We have implemented 3-Act-Tasks that begin by giving students a real-world scenario and asking them to think about all the possible related mathematical concepts. A solution is given to see if they were able to use their math skills to solve the task.
We have also learned the “Hands on Equations” system, which teaches students to apply mathematical reasoning and algebraic thinking to solve problems. This system is unique in that it uses manipulatives to help students make sense of how equations work and different methods for solving them.
Follow-Up: Ask your student to find regular scenarios around your home for which they could create their own 3-Act-Task to solve. You will be surprised how much math they can find in their everyday surroundings.
Reading
Students have learned a word connections game that challenges them to think about the multiple meanings of words and the various ways in which they can be connected to each other. Our students have enjoyed discussing the possibilities for word groupings and justifying their thinking. In the process, they have learned several new words and applications for them.
Students are currently involved in a critical reading of the story “The Eleventh Hour” which combines complex visuals, challenging puzzles, and a close reading of the text to solve a mystery. Our students are working to infer as much useful information as they can from the author’s use of figurative language and carefully worded clues in order to determine the answer to the mystery.
Follow-Up: Ask your student who they think stole the feast at this point in their investigation. Make sure to encourage them to justify their answer with evidence from the book to convince you!
Intellectually Gifted (IG):
This group has focused on providing students with opportunities to develop and practice important social and emotional skills. Students have participated in simulations designed to help them identify their strengths and weaknesses. These simulations include collaborative activities with their peers designed to challenge them to expand on their strengths and improve on their weaknesses.
Tangler puzzles are an important part of the IG group. These puzzles give each student a piece of the information, and they must work together to solve the problem using everyone’s information collectively. The group also participated in a Lego structure replication challenge. Success was measured based on a team’s collective achievement of the structure and the improvement of their communication along the way.
Follow-Up: Ask your student to share what they have learned about themselves from these activities. Then take a look at the “three strands of people” they used to characterize themselves and share with them which one you think you most closely relate to in a group situation.
The final enrichment event of 2024-25 is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025. This Alice's Winter Wonderland themed event will combine the magic of winter with some mind-bending challenges. Be on the lookout for a flyer with additional details via Class Dojo or Remind after Winter Break. Registration for this event will open up at 8:00 pm on 2/9/25. We would love to see your child there!
Did You Know?
North Carolina State Law requires public schools to identify and serve AIG students. The law, Article 9B, was passed in 1996.
School districts develop three-year AIG local plans that respond to state legislation. Districts must submit their AIG plans to the local school board for approval and to the State Board of Education and Department of Public Instruction (DPI) for review and comment.
Resources for parents that offer a variety of both academic and emotional support for their gifted or curious learner.
