ABOUT THE VOYAGER PROGRAM
Purpose
To provide challenging, stimulating and enriching activities to enhance the learning potential of selected students.
Criteria for Acceptance
Students completing grades 2, 3 and 4 may be considered for the Voyager Program the following September. Students must meet the following criteria:
Test of Cognitive Skills (administered in the spring of Grade 2) – 130 + and a strong teacher recommendation
Reading Test (designed for gifted students) 95th percentile or higher
Math Test (designed for gifted students) 95th percentile or higher
Teacher Recommendation/Rating Scale of Behavioral Characteristics – Score of 37+ on a scale of 30 – 40.
TCS, Reading Test, Math Test, and Teacher Rating scores will be recorded on the Identification Matrix and weighted to obtain a final score. A MINIMUM MATRIX SCORE IS REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION TO THE VOYAGER PROGRAM. Letters informing parents as to whether or not a student meets the criteria for placement will be mailed home. At the Voyager Parent meeting in September, the Voyager teacher will inform parents of the program goals, procedures, and curriculum.
Each class in each building will meet on one day of the 6-day cycle. Grade 3 attends 2 periods. Grade 4 attends 4 periods. Grade 5 attends 6 periods.
CURRICULUM - topics change every year. Several are listed below.
Interdisciplinary/Computer
Grade 3 - Problem Solving - Voyagers will work individually and together doing activities to promote logical thinking and problem solving. Some activities will include software programs: Reading Detective, ThinkAnalogy Puzzles, Mind Benders, Math Blockout!
Grades 4 & 5 - Various projects integrating word processing, desktop publishing, graphics, database, spreadsheet, slide presentations, and website design.
Literature
Grades 4 & 5 - Students read selected novels in class and discuss literary elements of plot, character, theme, mood, conflict, etc.. They learn to present their views with supporting details from the text. Books for this year will include The Westing Game, Chasing Vermeer and Adam Canfield of the Slash.
Math
Grade 4 - Hands-On Equations is a unique system to teach algebraic concepts to children. Using concrete math manipulatives, students can imitate the setup of the equation and are then taught strategies to help them solve the problem.
Grade 4 - Continental Mathematics League is a problem solving activity. Students learn how to comprehend word problems and develop strategies for solving multi-step brain teasers.
Critical Thinking
Grade 4 - WordMasters Challenge is an activity which encourages growth in vocabulary and verbal reasoning. Students are exposed to new words which they will use in an analogy-based contest three times during the year. This activity address higher-level comprehension and helps students think both analytically and metaphorically.
Grade 5 - Knowledge Master Open is a broad based academic competition. Each class works as a team to answer 100 multiple choice questions (based on 5th and 6th grade curriculum) via computer. Emphasis is on cooperation and strategies to narrow down choices. Questions are from Literature, Grammar, AMerican & World History, Geography, Biology, Physics, Earth Science, Math, Health, Music, Art, etc. Points are awarded for speed and accuracy of answers. January and March competition dates.
Communication- is the key to success!
Homework - Most Voyager work is done in class. Students in Grades 4 & 5 who are absent on Voyager days MUST make up the reading assignements. Grade 4 students must devote time outside class to studying for the WordMasters Challenges. All students are responsible to make up assignments as their classroom teacher requires.
Supplies - No school supplies are needed. Voyagers should bring a water bottle clearly labeled with their name to class. Food is not permitted in the Computer Lab. 3rd & 4th grade Voyagers will have snack before or after Voyager class.
Voyager Website - http://websites.nylearns.org/dpapa1 The site will include important information, updates on projects and activities, competition dates, etc.
Progress Reports - are issued in November, March and June. Students need to perform to standards established by school personnel in both the regular classroom and the Voyager Program.
If you have any questions or concerns:
1. Email me at dpapa@lynbrook.k12.ny.us 2. Phone the school (early in the morning is the best time). 3. Send in a note with your child.
I look forward to a productive and enjoyable school year with your child!