DISCOVERIES UNLIMITED An Enrichment For High-Achieving Students

What is Discoveries Unlimited or D.U.? Discoveries Unlimited is designed as an academically enriched time for high achievers. It is a wonderful opportunity to increase the quality of learning, the quantity of challenging experiences and extend the curriculum. Discoveries Unlimited classes meet for 45 minutes twice a week. Students will be challenged to expand thinking skills in these areas: fluency, flexibility, elaboration, and originality. Students will be encouraged to participate in discussions which require the use of comparing, contrasting, analyzing and synthesizing.

COMPONENTS OF CREATIVE THINKING IN DETAIL FLUENCY PROVIDE IDEAS AND POSSIBILITIES FLEXIBLITY ABILITY TO CHANGE AND MODIFY IDEAS ORIGINALITY PRODUCING FRESH AND NEW IDEAS ELABORATION ABILITY TO ADD DETAILS AND EXPAND ON A GIVEN IDEA

All students in this program will develop skills of creative writing, learn strategies which promote creativity, produce original products, and work with peers in small group settings. Discoveries Unlimited is a well rounded thinking program that will include activities for both creative and critical thinking. It is a balanced program of left and right brain activities, which is vital in today’s academic instruction. We will explore, develop, and present ideas on subjects across the curriculum.

Who Qualifies???? Discoveries Unlimited students must meet the following requirements: Enrolled in grades 1-5. (second semester for first grade) Maintain a 3.0 GPA in the content areas (ELA, Math, S.S., Science). No D’s or F’s on report card. Highly motivated, must be task committed, and must demonstrate appropriate student behavior. Nominated by a teacher. Score in the above average range on the K-Bit 2 aptitude test.

Time Out Policy Discoveries will utilize a Time Out policy for students who do not maintain the criteria for continued participation in the program. Procedures: 1. Students who earn less than a 3.0 GPA in the content areas or do not demonstrate appropriate school behavior will be placed on probation. 2. The probation time period and framework will be a site-based decision. 3. The Discoveries teacher will notify the teachers, parents, and the students if a student is on probation.

The Best of the Best Mrs. Mackey’s PERSPECTIVE Yes!! You are considered to be some of the smartest and most well behaved students at Forest Hill Elementary and in the world as far as I’m concerned. My expectations of you are very high and you will most definitely be challenged to think outside of the box. You should be known all over this campus as a positive role model, a helpful classmate and caring friend. You should be known as a good listener, an encouraging leader and team player. Never brag or boast about the gift of knowledge that you have been given. Instead use it to motivate your peers.

Bright Child vs. Gifted Learner BRIGHT CHILDGIFTED LEARNER Knows the answersAsks the questions Is interestedIs highly curious Grasps the meaningDraws inferences Has good ideasHas wild, silly ideas, very humorous Copies accuratelyCreates a new design Answers the questionsDiscusses in detail, elaborates Listens with interestShows strong feelings and opinions Completes assignmentsInitiates projects Enjoys straightforward sequential presentations Thrives on complexity

MORE CHARACTERISTICS OF DISCOVERIES UNLIMITED STUDENTS Good listeners Learn basic skills more quickly and with less practice Display an ability to work independently High level of curiosity Complete assignments on time Show self control and respect the rights of others Enjoy learning new things and new ways of doing things

Pictures of a field trip to Sky Ranch!