2024 IAGC Conference

BAM, ZAP, POW! Join this session to explore the impact of graphic novel literature circles on classroom engagement and critical thinking in the gifted classroom. Participants will learn the unique components of this fun and challenging text form and strategies for effective implementation in the middle school classroom. Standards-aligned and student-approved, graphic novel lit circles will BLAST student reading through the roof!

In this book rich presentation, we will explore the many ways that picture books can challenge our advanced, accelerated, and young literacy learners. Among the topics discussed in the session we will exam books using the "whole book approach,” as well as a look at picture books that are categorized as metafictive. This type of picture book provides a challenging break from the traditional narrative structures using alternative constructs to challenge the reader and budding writers as well as provide a model for critical/creative thinking, perspective, and point of view.  

The Question Formulation Technique provides a structured approach to assist students in asking questions not just answering them.  QFT works in concert with inquiry-based learning and promotes learning engagement and meaningful discussion.  QFT initiates the development of topical or thematic thought-provoking questions that provide a basis for instruction.  This method  supports critical and creative thinking and fosters students natural curiosity, motivation and engagement in learning.  It is an excellent strategy for social studies and science studies for K-12 grade students.  This will be a fast moving interactive session so get ready to collaborate.    

Founded on principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), we will explore methods of incorporating gifted learning into classroom expectations and daily practices. From choice boards to rubrics to individualized projects, we will discuss tools and techniques to create enrichment opportunities in addition to and/or support of traditional “pull out” gifted programs. This interactive session will encourage participants to ask enriching questions, practice failure, and incorporate interdisciplinary approaches to support all students’ diverse gifts.

How do you know if advanced learners are growing academically? How much growth is enough? What are growth norms? Measuring growth for advanced learners can be difficult. This session will define growth of grade-level and above-grade-level assessments, review data practices using NAGC standards, and discuss the most useful approaches and nuances of measuring growth.

Learn how high school students can gain valuable experience doing STEM and Humanities research with university professors. We will provide information about how to find research mentors, what journals students can publish their research in, competitions they can enter, and more. We will discuss the pros and cons of individual vs. group research projects, long-term vs. short term projects, fee-based vs. free programs, and extracurricular vs. in-school projects.  

In this session I will discuss the many reasons one should learn a second language. We will address the obvious benefits associated with becoming multilingual and we will delve into the more scientific reasons that studying another language can be beneficial to cognitive development and brain functioning. 

This session delves into incorporating philosophical questions across content areas, fostering inquiry-based learning and emphasizing the connection to social emotional learning. Practical strategies for publishing students' philosophical ideas, illustrations, and writing in a professional philosophy journal for K-12 students will also be discussed, empowering educators to nurture the intellectual and creative development of gifted learners. 

Learning readiness is imperative for “right-sized” instruction and programming for advanced students. This session explores best assessment practices to inform academic readiness and plan responsive, tiered lessons across a continuum of learning needs. Focus includes extended enrichments, tier-one instruction strategies and extending the “readiness-runway” by front-loading essential readiness skills.  Attendees will walk away with strategies to implement tomorrow!