-Stephanie Tolan, Is It A Cheetah?
So, What happens in AIG class?
Just So You Know, Parents!
As much as Mrs. Finch loves planning these awesome units, we know our gifted students have a knack for taking us on wild, beautiful detours. While these plans are written with the best of intentions to keep you informed, any gifted program worth its salt fully expects to follow some unexpected paths sparked by boundless curiosity. Embrace the adventure with us—our journey will change direction mid-year, and we welcome every twist and turn!
“Knowledge has its origin in perception.”
- da Vinci
In 4th grade, AIG students embark on an exciting journey of understanding how an idea becomes widely accepted knowledge. They delve into how every "unknown" is a mystery waiting to be uncovered, learning how we define what is "known" versus what is "accepted," and the deeper meaning behind da Vinci's quote, "knowledge has its origin in perception."
Your child will gain insight into the world of philosophic thinking as they craft unique learning experiences that allow them to grasp concepts in new and thrilling ways. They'll explore different levels of comprehension, with the ultimate goal of generating their own new ideas. Additionally, they will engage with various methods used across disciplines to test and create new insights as they begin to realize the limits of their own understanding.
What does it mean to KNOW something?
How can I enhance my knowledge and understanding of the world?
How is knowledge “created” or verified in various disciplines?
How is new knowledge shared with the world?
What mysteries (new problems, unanswered questions, and areas for study) exist in the world?
There are many ways to understand something and deepen one’s knowledge.
Unanswered questions are shaped by those seeking insight.
The highest level of knowing is creating new knowledge.
Various disciplines use specific strategies and methodologies to seek understanding and gain insights.
Projects to look forward to in Reading:
Novel Study: Chains and uncovering the mysteries of the hidden messages during the Revolutionary War
The Blind Men and the Elephant and the Art of Civil Discourse
North Carolina's Great Mystery: The Lost Colony of Roanoke
The Ancient Telephone Game: Socrates taught Plato, Plato taught Aristotle, and Aristotle taught Alexander the Great- A Blessing or a Curse?
Ciphers, Codes and Enigmas
Macbeth and the Conspiracy that Refuses to Die
Projects to look forward to in Math:
The Mystery of the Olympic Medal Count- Actual vs Per Capita totals
Shaping Fate: Designing a Carnival Game to Beat the Odds
Mathematical Mystery Tour: The Mysteries of the Fibonacci Sequence
Dr. Quicksolve and the Perplexor Mysteries
10 Things All Future Mathematicians and Scientists Should Know (but are rarely taught!)
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
- Nelson Mandela
By the time 5th graders arrive, they have generally been in the program for more than one or two years and are solidifying a sense of themselves as learners and their role in a connected world. They will learn how personal beliefs, values, and "mental models" influence their learning, choices, and vision of the future.
Students will explore events, people, discoveries, and inventions that shape society, including their impact on individuals, communities, education, employment, science, technology, and future generations. Philosophy, the foundation of all academic disciplines, will continue to be a key focus in the AIG Learning Lab. They will discuss philosophies that are meaningful to them and that influence how societies address needs and problems, such as government and education within the context of current events and the study of eminent people.
What factors influence and impact my learning, behavior, and vision of the future?
What are some examples of factors that positively and/or negatively impact society and the world?
How do values, philosophies, and history influence and impact how societies address needs and problems?
How do my personal choices reflect my beliefs and values?
How can I positively impact my “circle of influence” and my world?
Natural and manmade factors shape society's and individuals' visions of the world and its future.
These factors can have positive, negative, or mixed impacts.
Philosophies influence how societies address needs and problems, while personal philosophies impact learning and behavior.
Personal reflection enhances and impacts learning.
Projects to look forward to in Reading:
Novel Study: The Explorer and the impact of personal choice
My Own Personal Philosophy
Comparing Characters Through Childhood Bedrooms
Crafting the Past: Creating a New Ancient Civilization
Power in Action: Leaving a Legacy at Salem
Projects to look forward to in Math:
Hotel Tycoon: Design, Budget, and Pitch Your Way to Success!
Triple A Analogies
Stock Market Wizards: Predicting Patterns.
City Planners: Building a Sustainable Futures