Breakout Session 5
Tuesday, October 24 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, October 24 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Teachers and administrators will learn more about the development of a STEAM lab. We will discuss a variety of technologies and curriculum materials that support critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication in gifted learners. Participants will also explore ways to incorporate team-building and meaningful learning experiences using the Engineering Design Process.
Administrators, Teachers Grades K-5
Momentum 3
The session will introduce fixed and growth mindsets. We will showcase ideas on how to foster growth mindset in students, focusing on how to use literature and critical and creative thinking skills as the vehicle to do so.
Administrators, Teachers Grades K-5
Fusion
It is a critical goal to educate students about the “Triple Bottom Line“ so that they have a deep understanding regarding the interdependency of social, economic, and environmental systems in our world. Through rich curricular entry points, elementary gifted students can explore concepts that enable them to address authentic and relevant issues. Explore practical applications for laying a foundation in sustainability and learn how this platform can engage students to serve as strong stewards in their world.
Administrators, Parents, Teachers Grades K-5
Momentum 2
Adequate time and high-stakes testing have hindered student research. Learn effective strategies for a) building a common set of knowledge and expectations among teachers, b) modifying existing labs to emphasize scientific practices, c) scaffolding research from extended labs to mini-projects to independent projects, d) supporting students entering competitions, and e) using formative assessment tools for continued improvement.
Administrators, Parents, Teachers Grades 6-12
Granby C
Gifted students are found in all schools. The identification of students for gifted programs in Title 1 schools can be challenging. This session will demonstrate how the profile approach implemented in the school division benefits the identification of high-ability learners in underrepresented populations. Multiple criteria including screening, anecdotal notetaking, parent and teacher information, and testing will be reviewed. Participants will examine the online application process and learn strategies for rallying stakeholders to focus on identifying gifted characteristics in students. Suggestions will be presented in the effort to ensure that all students are afforded equal opportunity for early development of 21st century skills.
Administrators, Teachers Grades K-12
Granby B
PBL is an engaging, evidence-based method of teaching that offers students active and meaningful ways to learn curricular content and skills through a problem, question, or challenge. Identified gifted and high-ability students seek PBL environments because they become independent investigators of their own gifts and talents while learning curricular content and skills at an advanced level. This session will define PBL, identify and discuss the eight components of PBL, and connect PBL to the NAGC Gifted Education Programming Standards and Virginia Regulations for identified gifted and high-ability students. Administrators and teachers will become equipped with resources to bring PBL back to their schools and classrooms.
Administrators, Teachers Grades K-12
Energy 1
This workshop provides background on how two teachers differentiated an AP class to challenge learners. Learn how students were chosen for the project, what was used to enhance the unit of study, and what students were able to produce. More tips on how to make the AP classroom meet the needs of the gifted student will be provided.
Administrators, Parents, Teachers Grades 9-12
Adrenaline
In the last decade, the number of English Learners (ELs) in Virginia’s schools has increased dramatically; however, identification of ELs for gifted services has not followed suit. As the primary referral source for gifted ELs, teachers may not recognize the potential of these students due to misconceptions about giftedness and English language development. This session outlines how knowledge of English language development impacts each stage of the identification process and provides recommendations for designing professional learning opportunities to address this research-to-practice gap.
Administrators, Teachers Grades K-12
Momentum 1
Teachers and administrators will have the opportunity to participate in a collaborative dialogue with colleagues using constant questioning as well as develop active listening skills. They will be able to see how this proven method is able to stimulate deeper thought and understanding. The Portrait of a Graduate rubrics will be tied in to show how to assess the students with their critical thinking, communication, and collaboration goals.
Administrators, Teachers Grades K-12
Energy 2
This session focuses on using technology, the Google Apps suite included, to increase collaboration among gifted learners using curriculum materials and creative and critical thinking lessons.
Teachers, Grades K-5
Granby A