TAG / Advanced / IB

TAG (Talented and Gifted)

The TAG experience in 8th grade U.S. History involves the opportunity to pursue personal academic interests. Students are challenged to research and discover topics directly related to the themes of the current unit but making connections to periods beyond the unit and frequently beyond the shores of the United States - understanding varying perspectives on issues.

Each unit provides a multiple-grade extension typically assigned in Google Classroom one week early in the unit and due withing 7-10 days. Students are given specific expectations, guidance/coaching and the requirement to work independently (no student collaboration within classes or across teams), with accountability to resources used (credibility proven through annotated bibliography).

These experiences are not limited to TAG students - all are welcome to take the challenge.

Advanced (previously PreAP)

Mrs. Rank has been training in Advanced (previously PreAP) strategies for over a decade and has utilized them in instruction for years. The implementation of IB MYP instructional practices also increased the rigor of our curriculum. Both serve to grow thoughtful, analytical and increasingly self guided learners.

Advanced U.S. History in 8th grade is an initiative in RRISD to equip all 8th grade social studies students with strategies and skills to help prepare them for advanced courses in high school. This is implemented utilizing analysis strategies for images and reading as well as strengthening historical writing and response skills. We learn identical U.S. History TEKS, take identical RRISD and STAAR tests. Our campus based assessments will continue to emphasis open ended writing responses encouraging students to support their answers/perspectives with supporting evidence.

IB MYP Individuals and Societies-Year 3

What is the significance of individuals and societies in the MYP?

The subject encourages learners to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies and environments.

It encourages learners, both students and teachers, to consider local and global contexts.