FAQ's
Q: When do you test for TD? We screen all second graders at the beginning of their second grade school year with a nationally-normed aptitude test (CogAT) and the Gifted Rating Scales. The GRS (Gifted Rating Scale) was completed for each student by their first grade teacher. Depending on the results, some students may also take a nationally-normed achievement test (ITBS) and/or be given the opportunity to complete a portfolio. We will use this criteria to determine eligibility for the Talent Development Program.
Q: If I have a 3rd, 4th, or 5th grader, can they be tested? A child can be recommended for testing. Our on-site TD committee will determine if it is a good referral. We are currently able to test students in these grades with standardized testing. We look at their EOG test scores (if applicable) and consult with the classroom teacher to determine the next step in the process.
For more detailed information, visit IDENTIFICATION
Q: Is there a TD curriculum? The Common Core State Standards are the basic curriculum. The TD Teacher helps differentiate the curriculum by providing more in-depth, complex and/or accelerated activities for students working at a higher level. William and Mary Language Arts Units are often used with high ability readers. This nationally recognized program was developed by the Center for Gifted Education at the College of William and Mary. We have math material provided by our department that we use at various grade levels. These resources include: The Problem Solver, Math Olympiad, and Investigations Units. We try and enrich your child's education with activities that address the various multiple intelligences!
Q: What is the TD Catalyst Model? This model provides service through a collaboration between classroom teachers and teachers trained in gifted education. The teachers work and teach together to develop challenging, hands-on lessons that promote questioning, self-directed learning, and independent problem solving. TD/Catalyst classes are comprised of identified gifted students and high performing students.
Q: How does TD Certification affect the courses my child will take in middle school? Class selection/recommendation is based on several criteria...... EOG results, MAP scores, TD certification, teacher input, and parent input are all factors in determining class placement. CMS has an open access policy for class selection. It is also a good suggestion to discuss your options and ask questions at your child's potential middle school!
Q: What can I do at home?
Q: When do you test for TD? We screen all second graders at the beginning of their second grade school year with a nationally-normed aptitude test (CogAT) and the Gifted Rating Scales. The GRS (Gifted Rating Scale) was completed for each student by their first grade teacher. Depending on the results, some students may also take a nationally-normed achievement test (ITBS) and/or be given the opportunity to complete a portfolio. We will use this criteria to determine eligibility for the Talent Development Program.
Q: If I have a 3rd, 4th, or 5th grader, can they be tested? A child can be recommended for testing. Our on-site TD committee will determine if it is a good referral. We are currently able to test students in these grades with standardized testing. We look at their EOG test scores (if applicable) and consult with the classroom teacher to determine the next step in the process.
For more detailed information, visit IDENTIFICATION
Q: Is there a TD curriculum? The Common Core State Standards are the basic curriculum. The TD Teacher helps differentiate the curriculum by providing more in-depth, complex and/or accelerated activities for students working at a higher level. William and Mary Language Arts Units are often used with high ability readers. This nationally recognized program was developed by the Center for Gifted Education at the College of William and Mary. We have math material provided by our department that we use at various grade levels. These resources include: The Problem Solver, Math Olympiad, and Investigations Units. We try and enrich your child's education with activities that address the various multiple intelligences!
Q: What is the TD Catalyst Model? This model provides service through a collaboration between classroom teachers and teachers trained in gifted education. The teachers work and teach together to develop challenging, hands-on lessons that promote questioning, self-directed learning, and independent problem solving. TD/Catalyst classes are comprised of identified gifted students and high performing students.
Q: How does TD Certification affect the courses my child will take in middle school? Class selection/recommendation is based on several criteria...... EOG results, MAP scores, TD certification, teacher input, and parent input are all factors in determining class placement. CMS has an open access policy for class selection. It is also a good suggestion to discuss your options and ask questions at your child's potential middle school!
Q: What can I do at home?
- Start early to teach study skills, research skills, time management, goal setting, and task completion
- Help your child make choices and allow him/her to live with the consequences of those choices
- Provide lots of books, paper, pen/pencils, and building toys
- Play a variety of "games" (i.e. Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, Card Games, Chess, Pictionary, PayDay)
- Monitor technology time and encourage learning apps and websites
- Provide opportunities to explore many different areas of learning and physical activity
- Encourage your child to keep a journal
- Praise for effort as well as for accomplishments
- Teach independence skills (how to do laundry, cook, clean, etc...) and assign work responsibilities
- Provide moral training and opportunities for service to others