Byrdseed

Attention kindergarten, first, and second grade teachers: You likely have a budding and brilliant mathematician among your classroom ranks! That child may sit quietly while the other students “catch up” and learn basic math concepts covered by early primary curriculum, or he might refuse to do the work and goof off during math time. This behavior may suggest that this child is behind, but the following points will help determine if this is a valid conclusion.

Here are my three favorite young adult novels with gifted females as main characters. Each protagonist struggles to balance her abilities with others' expectations. None rely on tired cliches or overused school settings. And each novel is so well-written that I read them on my own during summer break!

Concept Attainment is probably my favorite model of instruction. It takes the opposite road of direct instruction, and forces students to make their own connections. It builds drama, gives students ownership, and is plain old fun. Here's a video explaining Concept Attainment.

Byrdseed has now been chugging along for six months. It has gone far beyond its original intent - a way to organize some thoughts during summer. Even if this is your first time reading, here are some milestones you have now helped contribute to: