Kindergarten:  

Detective Thinking (convergent/analytical)

• Read Curious George's ABCs

• Students will brainstorm new ideas that can be made out of each letter of the alphabet (for example:  Can I use the letter B to create something new?  If I add black dots, what else can I make?)

• Read How Will We Get to the Beach

• Students will practice detective thinking by listening for clues in a story in order to determine  one correct answer to a problem presented in the book.

• Read Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

• Students will listen for altered clues in the story in order to predict the next animal.

• Students will listen for clues in order to determine the one correct character being described from a set of 6 animal cards.  

1st Grade:  

Detective Thinking 

• Students will focus on using clues to find the one right answer that solves a problem.

• In some activities, they will use attribute blocks.  Students will determine which attribute block is missing from their set by using clues.

• Students will create an attribute train using 8 blocks.  Each time a new block is placed in the train, it must have only one attribute that is different from the previous block.  

• Students will also use Venn diagrams to determine differences and similarities between 2 options.

• Vocabulary:  detective, attribute, Venn diagram

2nd Grade:  

Convergent Thinking

• Students will sort items according to attributes that are the same using Venn Diagrams.  

• Vocabulary:  attributes, classify, intersect, Venn Diagram

• Students will use analytical thinking skills to correctly label a set of items.

• Students will use deductive logic skills to correctly order a set of items.

• Students will be using clues to determine the correct seating placement for characters in the P.E.T.S. Curriculum.  

Hidden Natural Phenomena: Exploring the Science of Change

During this nine weeks, our 3rd grade GT students are diving into the mysterious and fascinating world of hidden natural phenomena—rare or unusual events that occur in nature but are not often seen or understood. Connecting to our universal theme of Change, students will investigate how and why these natural wonders occur, what causes them to appear, and the ways they impact our planet.

Each student will select a natural phenomenon to research—such as quicksand, sinkholes, auroras, volcanic lightning, or red tide—and gather scientific information using credible sources. Throughout the project, they will:

• Analyze cause-and-effect relationships related to their chosen phenomenon.

• Record findings and data on a Phenomenon Profile Sheet.

• Create a visual representation (3D model, detailed diagram, or experiment).

• Design a digital presentation to share their research and discoveries.

Students will also use Depth and Complexity thinking prompts to guide their analysis, helping them consider unanswered questions, patterns of change, and connections across disciplines.

The project will culminate in a student showcase, where they will present their findings and visual models, demonstrating how change in nature can be both powerful and hidden from everyday view.

Architect Project: Designing Dream Homes

This nine weeks, our 4th grade Gifted & Talented students are stepping into the role of architects as they design and build dream homes for their clients! Through this hands-on project, students explore how systems work together within a home—from structure and design to purpose and function.

Each student has been “hired” by a staff client to create a personalized dream home that fits their client’s needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Throughout the project, students will:

• Interview their client to learn about their routines, must-haves, and style.

• Design a floor plan to scale using architectural symbols and drafting techniques.

• Create a budget and make purchases from a materials catalog to manage costs realistically.

• Develop elevation drawings and learn about different types of roofs and layouts.

• Construct a 3D model of their final design to present at the end of the unit during our Dream Home Showcase.

This project challenges students to think critically, apply math and design concepts, and demonstrate creativity and problem-solving. It’s an authentic, system-based exploration of how architecture blends logic, artistry, and innovation—and our students are rising to the challenge!

Destination X: The Truth About Travel

During this nine-week project, our 5th grade GT students will become destination researchers and travel designers! Each student will choose a location to explore in depth. Through inquiry, creativity, and critical thinking, they’ll uncover the truth behind travel—discovering how advertising, culture, geography, and history shape what we believe about a place.

Students will research their destination, analyze sources for accuracy, and create original products such as maps, brochures, advertisements, logos, menus, and travel presentations. Throughout the project, they’ll also engage in lessons that connect to our universal theme of Truth, asking questions like:

• How do we know what is true about a place?

• Can images or ads be misleading?

• What is the difference between perception and reality?

The project will culminate in students presenting their “Destination X” to showcase both their creativity and what they’ve learned about truth in travel.