Enrichment Groups
Asking Questions
Inquiry-based learning in enrichment groups means students are asking thoughtful questions about literature and nonfiction and while they research problems and topics. Students practice "close reading" as we analyze fiction and nonfiction by determining key questions and reading and re-reading for specific purposes. We change the purpose as our questions change. Students show care and deep thought as they read and discuss complex text. We read and discuss using the shared-inquiry approach to careful reading.
Inquiry-based learning in enrichment groups means students are asking thoughtful questions about literature and nonfiction and while they research problems and topics. Students practice "close reading" as we analyze fiction and nonfiction by determining key questions and reading and re-reading for specific purposes. We change the purpose as our questions change. Students show care and deep thought as they read and discuss complex text. We read and discuss using the shared-inquiry approach to careful reading.
Text-Based Evidence
We build knowledge through reading content-rich nonfiction and informational texts in books and all media, through classical literature and current fiction of all kinds. Students make inferences based on putting clues together from textual evidence in fiction and poetry. They analyze the reliability of sources, compare information and look for discrepancies, and synthesize and evaluate meaning. Students' reading and writing are grounded in evidence from the text. They transform information from this synthesis of information into creative ideas and projects.
Problem Solving
Students use their conceptual knowledge and their thinking skills in mathematics and across subject areas to solve multi-step problems. We apply algebraic principles of representation, balance, variable, function, ratio and proportion. Students learn mathematical fluency as they use and explain number operations and apply thinking skills to solving problems. They enjoy examining problems with strategies such as logical reasoning, making tables and graphs, drawing pictures and diagrams, using objects, and through mathematical concepts. They explain their thinking verbally and in writing with increasing complexity. We apply mathematical thinking to topics and problems in our lives and the world, linking our learning.
Depth and Complexity
Students in enrichment groups focus on big ideas as reflective learners. We connect the rich curriculum the children learn in their classrooms and in the arts and sciences to our group work, focusing on universal ideas such as Change, Systems, Justice, Symbols, Patterns, Cycles, Power, Observations, and Discoveries. Our content varies but our approach is consistent, emphasizing critical and creative thinking, deep reading, inquiry-based learning, and logical problem solving. The students analyze and evaluate how learning alters their knowledge, opinions, and approaches to further inquiry and action. Students support each other as they grow in independence through critical and creative thinking, taking risks, communicating effectively, and reflection.