YARMOUTH CHAPTER 104 - GT INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT
GT Instructional Support
Students identified for GT instructional support are provided with the opportunity to achieve, to be self-directed, to accept responsibility, to develop creative and critical thinking skills, to pursue individual and alternative solutions, and to value inquiry and lifelong learning. Instructional support seeks to engage students in opportunities that provide breadth and depth to their grade-level curriculum as well as address their social and emotional needs.
The 3-5% of students identified as gifted are supported through small-group, pull-out instruction; consultation with classroom teachers; in-class support; and enrichment opportunities. Students who do not fall into the 3-5%, but who still require a level of instructional support to meet their needs, receive consultation services.
Small Group
During small-group pull-out instruction, the GT teachers work with students to provide them with alternative learning opportunities that create additional breadth and depth in their curriculum. For instance, students might work on passion projects, read complex texts, complete math inquiries, or attempt challenges that they may not normally explore in their day-to-day schedule. These opportunities address their academic needs by cultivating student curiosity and fueling their passion for learning.
In addition to academic needs, gifted students often have unique social-emotional needs. Through connections with their academic peers and GT teachers, over-excitabilities, perfectionism, anxiety, social struggles, as well as other needs are discussed and addressed.
Consultation
The consultation model involves the GT teacher collaborating with the classroom teacher to ensure that students are being supported in the regular education setting. The GT teacher may assist the classroom teacher with alternative assignments or materials, or may recommend opportunities in which the student might participate. A few examples of these opportunities would be National History Day, Legenda, math challenge drop-in, math team, or an independent study.
If you have questions about GT services and your child, please connect with their classroom teacher. The classroom teachers will coordinate with the GT teachers to further explore your child's needs and how best to meet them.