What is First Grade Discovery?

First Grade Discovery is a division-wide program offered in every elementary school across MCPS. It is taught every other week by the Gifted Resource Teacher and provides all first graders with opportunities to stretch their thinking. While not all students are identified as gifted, every child participates in these lessons so that all students have equal access to enriched learning experiences.

Why do we offer First Grade Discovery?

The goal of First Grade Discovery is to nurture early potential by giving students opportunities to explore higher-level thinking skills. These lessons are designed to:

• Encourage critical and creative thinking.

• Strengthen problem-solving and reasoning skills.

• Foster flexible thinking and curiosity.

• Build confidence in sharing and developing ideas.

How is this program different from gifted identification?

Participation in First Grade Discovery does not mean that a child has been identified for gifted services. Instead, it is a way for all first graders to engage in activities that spark curiosity and stretch their thinking. At the same time, these lessons give Gifted Resource Teachers and the classroom teacher a chance to observe students’ strengths and talents in a variety of settings.

What are the benefits for students?

First Grade Discovery helps students:

• Build a strong foundation for future learning.

• Gain confidence as independent thinkers.

• Work collaboratively with peers to solve problems in new ways.

• Discover the joy of tackling challenging and engaging tasks.

By providing these opportunities to every child, our division ensures that all students have the chance to develop early gifted thinking skills and explore their potential.