Most weeks, students learn 6 high-usage words common in gifted education (usually referred to as Tier 2 or 3 words). In total, they learn 180 vocabulary words over the course of the year. Students reinforce their vocabulary knowledge through interactive games, in-class quizzes, and homework activities. Vocabulary words reappear in readings, discussions, and writing assignments.

Our lovable character Robo guides students through their grammar and spelling each week. Students learn about a specific element of grammar, such as capitalization or terminal punctuation. They then apply that knowledge by identifying and correcting errors in an entertaining story of Robo’s adventures. He then helps them spell words that share special sounds or combinations of letters.

In our weekly reading and discussion time, we read an advanced text, and students respond to questions designed to help them think about its characters, plot, and key themes. Corresponding weekly writing assignments allow students to improve their writing skills, while giving them practice in several different types of writing, including creative writing, opinion writing, informative writing, and personal narrative writing.

Every in-class reading is accompanied by a Socratic discussion led by PhD and expert instructors. Students are encouraged to form their own opinions and engage with the opinions of their teacher and classmates. Creativity is fostered both in classroom activities and homework assignments that ask students to write original creative works, opinion pieces, or personal narratives or reflections related to the week’s reading and discussion.