Spinelli Elementary School

Spinelli GATE

G.A.T.E. at Spinelli is offered in an after-school program that focuses on critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity, as well as a variety of other areas. The year consists of two themes, which include research, problem-solving, and presentation.

For the 2018/19 school year, our first theme will be MAGIC. Students will be introduced to the 8 traits of a true magician and learn the magicians’ lingo (vocabulary). They will then research notable magicians and specific tricks to perform, taking note of the effect, secret, set-up, and performance/delivery. Each week they will present a new trick to the class. The session will culminate in a magic show presented to friends, family, and faculty.

The second theme of the year will focus on participating in the Nature Bowl at the Placer Nature Center in the spring. Students participate as a team to compete against other schools in the area. Its purpose is to motivate students and reinforce environmental concepts to promote regional ecology, natural history, and conservation. The class practices simulated games like those found at the actual Nature Bowl to prepare for the competition. Students participate in nature investigations, team problems, bell-ringer games, and even create and present their very own “Enviro-mercial” that focuses on local environmental problems and solutions. The class looks forward to competing every year!

G.A.T.E. doesn’t just stop at the after-school program, though. Many exciting things are happening in the classroom, as well. Students set a plan with their teachers to differentiate curriculum and instruction. Some things that may apply to students are the use of technology, complexity within assignments, accelerated pacing, research skills, and more. These are utilized by the classroom teacher on an individual basis, meeting each student’s academic needs.

Nature Bowl Competition for 2019: Tuesday, April 2

Placer Nature Center in Auburn