We took full advantage of our Target day, packing it with good learning experiences!

Algebraic Thinking Skills
We continued our algebra work today with Hands On Equations.  Our new students are making great progress, learning a new legal move today!  This will definitely help them solve new equations!  Our returning students are working their way through using “Convenient Zeros” in different ways to help them solve equations.  See if your kiddo can explain what a “Convenient Zero” is.

Affective Skills
We started a goal setting unit today, with a short video about how people can "Seize the Day".  It is a music video, that shows the lyrics as it plays.  Who knew the kids would spontaneously sing along?!  

Later, we heard from Rick Parker, Lead Gifted Teacher, at Daniell Middle School.  He shared information about Advanced Content Courses, Middle School in general, and advice from some of his former students.  The kids really enjoyed asking him questions about the ins and outs of being a middle schooler.  I can tell they felt relieved that middle school will be just fine, and maybe fun too!

Unit Study
We continued our work on Genius Hour with a research/work session and then a Peer Coaching session.  The kids offered each other helpful feedback and will use that feedback to improve their ongoing project work.  

HW:  Edmodo Genius Hour Project Update

Until next week,
​Dr. Kraeger

We had a wonderful day of learning today!

Convergent Thinking Skills
Since we have new Target student this semester, we took this opportunity to teach/review a type of Logic Puzzle called a "Perplexor".  This is a logic puzzle without a grid.  The kids caught on quickly and zoomed right through their first Perplexors.  We also introduced our other type of logic puzzle-Grid Puzzles.  They did well with those too!  Our returning students worked on their choice of either a grid puzzle or a Perplexor.  

Unit Study
We continued our work on Genius Hour with discussion of our Project Plans, a review of our rubric, and some research time to get started.  After conferencing with each student, they seem to be off to a good start!  You can check out Project Rubric for more information.

Divergent Thinking Skills
We used our creativity to develop ways to "Escape Detention", just like Donovan did in our novel.  The kids were FULL of questions about their potential escape plans.  Let's hope they never end up in detention, since they now have MANY ways to get out of it! :)

Algebraic Thinking Skills
Our new Target kiddos got started on our algebraic thinking curriculum-Hands On Equations.  This system uses plastic pieces and a mat to allow kids to physically represent and solve algebraic equations.  We also use teacher created videos and the Hands-On-Equations app to individualize instruction for our math time.  The HOE Level 1 app is $1.99.  For more info click: Hands On Equations.  This would be a great way for your child to preview, practice, and or review the concepts we'll be working on in class.
 It's been a while since our returning Target kids worked on Hands On Equations.  There were definitely some moans and groans in the group, but also some excitement--which is great!  We got right back into our problem solving with some great algebraic strategies.  

Novel Study
We read more of our book, Ungifted. We discovered where the book title came from and that our main character was just selected to attend the Academy for Scholastic Distinction, even though he's really NOT gifted.  Hmm...wonder how he'll do?  We played Kahoot to challenge our critical thinking skills on the story.  Pretty good for the first time around!

Affective Skills
\We worked on our collaboration skills with a teambuilding activity, "Truth".  It was a cool game, and the kids learned a lot about teamwork and successful strategies.

HW:  Edmodo- Project Update

Until next week,
​Dr. Kraeger

We got off to a fantastic start today! Our first activity was a "Target Scaveger Hunt" to learn more about our gifted classroom and resources.

Affective Skills

We worked on our collaboration skills with two teambuilding activityies, "The Marshmallow & Knife Challenge" and Silent "ABC Line-Up". It was definitely an interesting process, and the kids learned a lot about teamwork and problem solving.

Unit Study
We kicked off our unit today with a few introductory videos, which you can take a look at on our Genius Hour Glog.

Novel Study
The kids had a great time beginning our new novel, Ungifted. The kids enjoyed hearing about a boy, who has a knack for wild ideas that usually land him in trouble. We followed up our first two chapters with a divergent thinking activity "Create a Scene-Choose your Character". Take a look at the results outside our classroom.

HW: Edmodo-Share your Genius Hour Project idea & discuss with your parents. Tell what their response is.

Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger