Fourth Grade TAG
Technology Unit
The fourth grade TAG students are beginning a research journey with a
focus on technology. Using
Microsoft Publisher, each student will learn how to create a Newsletter,
Brochure, and PowerPoint
presentation. Each student will then choose one of these three applications
to create a product or
presentation on a topic of his or her choice.
Students will choose a research topic and develop 10 – 15 focus
questions to answer. Next, students
will find credible evidence using a minimum of three resources to help answer
their questions. Students
will then synthesize and revise their research findings and import this
information into their
presentation. Our goal for teaching this unit is for the students to become
fluent in new computer
skills that they can apply with ease and confidence in other areas of their
life.
Students will work on these projects at school each week during our
scheduled TAG sessions. In
some cases, the students will also need to conduct research and work on their
project outside of
school. In January, the students will present their finished products and
presentations with their
classmates.
This research and technology unit will be invaluable to students living
in this technologically astute
world. The lessons and experiences incorporated into this unit promote
leadership capabilities, public
speaking, problem solving and critical thinking.
Fifth Grade TAG
Service Learning Project
The fifth grade TAG students will be working on Service Learning
Projects through January 2010. You may be wondering what service learning
is, how it is different from community service and whether it is appropriate
for academically gifted students. The core concept of service learning is a
powerful connection between service to the community and specific academic
goals. With service learning, students identify a true need in the
community, create a plan of action for addressing the need, implement the
plan and reflect on what they’ve learned.
Benefits of Service Learning Include:
• Increased retention of academic skills
• Development of leadership and responsibility
• Empowerment of students
• Increased involvement in community
• Increased relevancy of education to real world
• Authentic opportunities for career exploration
• Enhancement of creative problem solving
(NAGC )
Steps of Service Learning:
1. Self Assessment
2. Community Assessment
3. Choose an Issue
4. Conduct Research
5. Create a Plan
6. Implement the Plan
7. Celebration
8. Evaluation