WCPSS Explorers Model

for 3rd Grade StudentsWest Lake Elementary School

Jessica Nelsonjnelson2@wcpss.net

The purpose of the Academically Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Program is

to provide an appropriately challenging educational program for

students who perform, or show potential for performing, at remarkably high levels of

accomplishment…

~from WCPSS AIG Plan 2010-2013, page 1

Service Delivery by the AIG Teacher K-2: Consultation

Grade 3: Explorers Model

Grades 4 & 5: AIG ServicesResource classesCollaborative

Teaching

Grades 6-8 Consultation Cluster grouping

Grades 9-12 Advanced course

selection

Explorers Model Classes

Students who demonstrate potential in the activities will receive extension/ enrichment activities in language arts /math under the guidance of the AIG teacher.

Whole group experiences Small group experiences

The AIG teacher works in partnership with the 3rd grade classroom teachers to provide a variety of in-class experiences designed to elicit high academic performance.

Team Effort

Students

AIG Resource Teachers

3rd Grade Teachers

Explorers Classes

Whole class introductory lessons in the 3rd grade classroom, typically 1-3 times per quarter for 3 quarters

Assessment of student performance and products

Small group extension/enrichment activities directed by the AIG teacher, typically 2-3 times per quarter for 3 quarters

Lessons vary quarter by quarter

Criteria for Small Group Participation

Observational checklists by the classroom and AIG teachers

Student communication skillsStudent interestStudent motivationProblem solving ability

Groups are flexible as units of study change.

Student Participation

Participation in a small group experience does not mean that a student has been or will be identified for future AIG services.

Explorers Model Portfolios

• Student work samples • Products• Journals• Teacher checklists

Portfolios will be a part of the spring AIG identification process for 3rd grade

students.

AIG Identification Process

Formal Indicators

• Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) • Track 1-3 January 10-January 14• Track 4 January 24-28

• Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS)• Track 1 February 28-March 4• Track 2-4 March 14-18

AIG Identification Process

Informal Indicators

• Classroom Behaviors• Classroom Performance• Student Portfolios• Student Interest• Student Motivation

Keeping You Informed…..

• AIG Program Brochure-sent home 2 times in 3rd grade

• Parent informational meetings

• School/ AIG teacher website http://aigwestlakees.wikispaces.com/

• Email for questions and answers jnelson2@wcpss.net

Our goal is to support classrooms with

educators working together to help each

student grow and develop as fully as

possible.

~AIG Explorers Program Goal