Those researching schools for gifted children usually begin
by inquiring about the differences between traditional schools, whether public
or private and gifted institutions. While there are many details that are
distinctive, the main characteristics that distinguish advanced-learner establishments
from conventional schools are:
Peer and Ability
Groupings
The standard school groups children according to age and
advances grades and curriculum based on the calendar. While schools for gifted
students also move pupils to the next grade at the end of each year, they group
them differently on a daily basis. Ability-based groups are formed within appropriate
age ranges in order to better meet student needs and appropriately challenge
pupils. Working in small groups of peers with similar abilities, means each
child receives a more tailored experience at gifted school.
Deeper Curriculum
It is true that advanced learners often absorb information
at a quicker pace. That does not mean that the standard gifted second grader is
ready for calculus, however. A gifted student will fully grasp a concept with
fewer repetitions, and therefore gifted institutions have surplus time to enrich
students on core concepts. By using projects, research, debates and other
techniques, instructors are able to impart a sophisticated understanding of
each topic, rather than just a basic grasp, as is the goal in a traditional environment.
Extended
Opportunities
Another great benefit of schools for gifted students is the
extended opportunities, such as field trips and after-school focus groups. From
service opportunities to campouts, these institutions provide off-campus
learning experiences unrivaled for their educational value. Additional
on-campus programs and clubs offer advanced students chances to put their
understanding to the test in robotics, cooking, music and more.
Institutions that cater to gifted children give advanced
students an opportunity to learn alongside those who move at their pace. They
also extend traditional curriculum in creative ways both in and out of the
classroom.
