Gifted and Talent Development

We welcome all students and their parents to the GTD page. This site consists of two parts: the first section has district GTD information and the second has VMSS information.

This VMSS site includes information for all students - not only GTD students. There are events for everyone!

This year we are thrilled to have three GTD coordinators. Ms. Pelinka will be working with 6^th graders. Ms. Gagnon will be working with 7^th and 8^th graders. Mrs. Spychalla will be the overall GTD consultant and will be working with all grades. Please contact us anytime.

GTD Coordinators help students choose a variety of enrichments. Some are listed on this website.

District 196 GTD Information

Gifted and talented children are those students with outstanding abilities and capable of higher performance when compared to others of similar age, experience and environment. They have significantly different educational needs from their peers and require educational differentiation as a regular part of their school day to ensure they reach their full potential.

Check out more district GTD information at http://www.district196.org/academics/gt

Valley GTD Information

VMSS GTD Coordinators work to:

Communicate with GT students, their parents, administrators and teachers/staff about GTD topics;
Advocate for GTD students to meet their academic, organizational and social emotional needs;
Form relationships with GT students and encourage participation in appropriate opportunities;
Promote rigorous curriculum that exceeds the national, state and district standards; support content area teachers in offering challenging curriculum;
Coordinate a variety of enrichments, academic clubs and competitions, and
Provide a smooth transition between elementary and middle school GTD programming.

What is GTD?
GTD services help meet the needs of identified gifted/talented (GT) and other students by providing academic and affective opportunities within and beyond the classroom. GT students are part of GTD. GT students are identified in elementary school. They continue to be GT throughout middle school.

What does VMSS offer to GT students?
VMSS offers inquiry-based assignments, challenges within and beyond the classroom, enrichment opportunities, flexible grouping, academic cluster classes, accelerated math classes and individual services. Some 6^th grade GT students meet with the GTD coordinator frequently to discuss pertinent topics. In addition, some students may attend drop-in sessions during advisory to play board games or solve puzzles.

How do I know what classes GT students have?
GT students usually have math, science, English (ELA) and social studies courses as all students do. They may be clustered in academic classes which include GT and others. Cluster teachers are experienced in their contact area and have worked with high ability students. They will explain their expectations and describe advanced opportunities within their classes. High performing math students with high national math data are often in accelerated math classes.

My child is concerned because the teachers have not said anything about GTD.
Usually teachers do not use those teams when talking to the entire class just as they do not use the term special ed student or EL (English Language) learner. Sometimes a label can cause stress, pressure to attain a certain level or negative feelings. Some students may think they are in the wrong class when they do not hear GT or GTD but all their schedules are reviewed to ensure they are in appreciate academic sections.

What if my child is bored?
No student should be bored. Valley has a myriad of opportunities available for each child to succeed. If your child would like more rigorous work or curricular extensions, contact the classroom teacher or a GTD coordinator.

Can all students participate in enrichments? How do students find out about enrichments?
Enrichments are encouraged for all students. There are things for everyone. Students should ask classroom teachers about class extensions and ask advisors/coaches of specific activities for beyond the classroom enrichments. Announcements are often in the bulletin or posted on Schoology. Students and parents are encouraged to read it daily.

Mary Spychalla

Contact

Mary Spychalla,
Gifted and Talent Services

952-431-8349
Mary.Spychalla@district196.org

Sarah Pelinka

Contact

Sarah Pelinka,
Gifted and Talent Services
Grade 6

952-431-8308
Sarah.Pelinka@district196.org

Leslie Gagnon

Contact

Leslie Gagnon,
Gifted and Talent Services Grades 7 & 8

Leslie.Gagnon@district196.org

Enrichments Beyond the Classroom

Aviation Day
This event is especially for girls and their parents although the entire family can attend. This year’s event is on a Saturday in September at Flying Cloud airport. Although it is FREE, parents MUST register their student and themselves through the website https://starsofthe north.org/girls-in-aviation-day. Registration is limited so it is suggested to register soon.

Battle of the Books
Students form teams, read specific books and compete in a districtwide competition in the spring. In 2018 one of our teams WON the district competition.

Chess
Chess Club meets one day a week after school from late October through March. They have several meets a year against other schools.

Creative Poetry Contest
Are you a poet? If you answered, “Yes,” you are encouraged to write a poem on any topic and submit it to a GTD coordinator. Usually several students’ poems advance to a national competition. Check out the details at: www.poeticpower.com.

Declam/Speech
Declam/Speech begins after school in early December. You are encouraged to start declam in grade 6 so you will be an expert in a few years. Apple Valley High School students often advance to national competitions.

DestinationImagiNation
DI is a creative problem solving competition in which a small group of students form a team and create a skit on a topic. Each team has two parents as team leaders/coaches. A GTD Coordinator can help complete the paperwork for the competition. Teams meet in students’ homes. This is not a school sponsored event but is listed because some students may be interested. Check out www.destinationimagination.org

Drop-In
Yes, drop-in is considered an enrichment because specific students get to come into the GTD hallway and play board games or do homework during some advisory times. Drop-in is offered when other enrichments do not conflict.

Eagle’s Call
Eagle’s Call is an online school publication by and for Valley’s students. It publishes new articles, feature stories, opinion pieces, comics and creative writing such as fiction and poetry.

FAB Lab Extended Day
Students may sign up for the FAB lab after school on dates to be determined. What will you create? See Mr. Podmers or Mr. Martin for details.

Field Trips
There were usually several STEM field trips that selected students participated in prior to COVID.

Future City
Future City is a five month, engineering competition which begins in September. It incorporates STEM strategies where teams of 3 - 6 students construct a table top size model city to scale, describe the attributes of their city, write an essay on this year's topic, and present to a group of engineers at the state competition in January. Valley usually has TWO teams so both can compete at the state level. There are usually 30 - 35 teams from a variety of schools competing in the state meet. The team earning the most points advances to the national competition in Washington, D.C. There are also special awards and often at least one Valley team gets an award. This is a fantastic engineering activity. Check out the websites at www.successbeyond.org or www.futurecity.org. Mrs. Spychalla and Ms. Trudeau have been past coaches.

Geography Bee
Although the National Geography Bee is no longer held, we usually have a school wide bee in November. The school winner and runner-up receive gift cards.

Math Club
Math Club is for all students who want high level math practice. Math Club meets weekly. Students who participate in Math Club may be chosen for the MN Junior High Math League or Math Counts.

Math League Test
Students in some accelerated math classes participate in the state Math League competition in February. Since 2021-22, one of our teams have placed first in the competition.

Math Masters – 6^th grade – 10 - 15 students
Selection for the Math Masters teams consists of a test. Students are usually chosen in October and practice about twice a week during advisory to prepare for the competition which is in early March. Problems cover the following areas: numerical, geometry, time, money, decimals, fractions, percents, charts, statistics, probability, and pre-algebra. After the competition, we usually celebrate with a lunch at Dairy Queen or McDonalds.

Midwest Talent Search
The ACT or SAT is available through NUMATS for some students. Students take the same exam that is given in high school. See Mrs. Spychalla for information. Google NUMATS northwestern university or check out the Center for Talent Development on the district GTD site.

National Junior Honor Society
VMSS is the only district middle school that offers NJHS. Sixth and seventh graders who meet the criteria for applying are notified in mid-March and may apply. Check out the details under Academics on the school website. Mr. Roseen is the advisor.

Physics Force
Physics Force at the University of Minnesota is for 6th and 7th graders who are selected by math and science teachers.
Check out physicsforceumn.edu

READ Club
Do you love to read? Would you like to learn about books that have been purchased recently and be among the first to check them out? Do you like to participate in team book competitions? If you answered, "Yes," then you should enjoy READ club which meets during advisory each month.

Scholastic Scrimmage
Scholastic Scrimmage (SS) is a rigorous team academic competition for the highest level of 7th and 8^th grade students who have a wealth of knowledge. In the past we have traveled to Scott Highlands several times a year to play against other district middle schools.

Science Bowl
Stay tuned for more information.

Spelling Bee
This schoolwide competition will be held in April.

STEMsdays Advisory Activities
In the past, we received funding from the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME). Donations are always welcome to help provide for STEM materials. Contact Principal, Dr. Buchwald if you would like to donate. STEMsdays are held periodically throughout the year.

Stock Market
Seventh and eighth graders are encouraged to form their own teams of 3-4 students and participate in the year-long version which starts in September.
Sixth graders may participate in the winter/spring game which runs from January to April.

Student Council
Student Council is a new group in 2022-23. Seventh and eighth graders have already been chosen. Sixth graders will be able to apply soon. Mr. Gallaher is the advisor.

Summer Academy for Academically Talented Students
Until 2020, this district-wide week-long academy for middle school students was facilitated by the district Gifted/Talented Department at the district office. They have decided not to offer it any more.

Thinking Cap - grade 7, 8
Teams of advanced students practice for this rigorous, fast-paced academic grade level competition during advisory for several months and then compete in two nationwide meets - one in the fall and the other in the spring. Teams usually consist of six to ten students. Working as a team enables students to answer most questions quickly even though many are slightly above their skill level. They earn points based on accuracy and speed. It is a fun team event for the highest level of students.

VFW Essays
The Rosemount VFW Post sponsors an essay event called Patriot’s Pen each September. Each year the topic changes. The essays are submitted to the Rosemount Post for evaluation and a recognition ceremony is held for those who write outstanding essays.

Word Masters
GTD 6th graders usually participate in an advanced vocabulary and analogy study from January through April. Check out www.wordmasterschallenge.com.

Young Authors Conference
Each spring the Young Authors Conference is held at Bethel College and offers students who have a passion for reading and writing an opportunity to work with authors, poets, illustrators and other adults who will share their love of literature. Ms. Rogers is the facilitator. Check out www.successbeyond.org

More VMSS GTD Information

Cluster Classes for GT students
GT students are usually clustered in English Language Arts, science and social studies. Cluster teachers have experience working with high achieving students. GT students are also placed in appropriate math courses.

Differentiated Curriculum
Using the Minnesota state standards as a guide, Valley teachers strive to provide curriculum that meets the needs of each student. Teachers receive on-going training in using inquiry to engage students to reach high levels of learning. In addition, English language arts, social studies, science and math teachers have shared ideas for differentiated curriculum with each other.

Electives for 7th and 8th graders
7/8^th grade students have many choices for electives including several STEM classes, Creative Movement, Band, Choir and Spanish.

Gifted and Talented Advisory Council
This group of parents, students, principals, teachers, and district staff meets quarterly to discuss issues related to gifted education. See the district website for detailed information about the purpose, members and minutes of this council. Mary Spychalla was the co-facilitator of this group for many years.

Gifted and Talented Coordinators
Mary Spychalla has been Valley's GT coordinator for many years. In 2008, she was hired as the district's middle school GT Teacher on Special Assignment in addition to the part time GT position at Valley. When the district middle school GT position was combined with the elementary position in 2014, she continued part time as GT coordinator at Valley. Although retired, much of her time is spent at Valley. In 2021-22, she asked Valley’s administration to hire someone to help her meet GT students’ needs in the future.

Sarah Pelinka is the 2022-23 6^th grade GT Coordinator. Previously, a full time 6^th grade science teacher, she continues having some 6^th grade science classes in addition to her new GTD role. Before coming to VMSS, she was an Echo Park teacher.

GT in 6th grade
GT 6^th graders will meet frequently with Ms. Pelinka. Topics center around academic and affective needs of GT students.

GT Students and Parents Communication
Do you have a question about any aspect of GT or GTD? Please contact Mary Spychalla. We want to help all students be successful.

Math Acceleration - 6th grade
Fifth graders may be screened in the spring for appropriate 6th grade math placement. Criteria may include data from the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test), math MAP (Measures of Academic Progress), Algebra Prognosis Assessment, Benchmark Assessment, and MCA (Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment). Students who are math accelerated in 6th grade skip TWO years of math and may enroll in Accelerated Algebra I. This course is for our highest tier of incoming 6th graders who meet stringent criteria. Students who are close to meeting the criteria for math acceleration may participate in a summer independent study option and then be assessed again.

Other students may be invited to enroll in a 6^th grade high math class.
Contact Mary Spychalla for information on both these classes.

Math Acceleration - 7th grade
All 6th graders are screened in the spring for appropriate math placement the following year. Some students may skip one entire year of math (pre-algebra) and are placed in Accelerated Algebra I in grade 7. Letters are mailed to parents of these students in May.

MN Council for the Gifted and Talented Conference
Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) holds an Annual Conference in late fall for parents and youth (K-7th grade). Go to www.mcgt.net for further information.

MN Institute for Talented Youth Summer Programs
Many summer enrichment courses are available through MITY. Visit mity.org for course descriptions and staff information. All courses are on the campus of Macalester College in St. Paul. One student remarked, "Where else can you be spitting watermelon seeds one minute and studying astrophysics the next?"

Parents of 6th grade GT students
Prior to 2022-23 parents of 6^th grade GT students were mailed information about middle school GT in the spring of their child’s 5^th grade year and at the beginning of their child’s 6^th grade year. Parents of GT 6th graders also received periodic email updates about GT. With the hiring of a new 6^th grade GTD coordinator and the use of more technology, parents may receive GT information in other ways.

UMTYMP - University of Minnesota Talented Youth Math Program
Highly gifted math 6th and 7th graders may register with the University of Minnesota to take a qualifying exam which will determine if they are invited to participate in a highly accelerated math program at the University.

Center for Talent Development

Three-Step Method

englishforeveryone.org

Three-Step Method for Solving Analogies Problems

The best way to solve analogies problems is to attack them using this universal method. Each of the
following steps outlined in our Five-Step Method will work with any analogy you may encounter,
regardless of the relationship shared between the word pair.
Step 1:
Build a strong bridge sentence relating the words in the question pair. The bridge should be as short and
clear as possible.
Function Bridge:
1) bag : buy
2) baby : cry
3) cloud : rain
4) fork : eat
5) car : stop
In the question to the left, the question pair is SHOVEL : DIG. First,
think about a necessary relationship shared between this pair:
A shovel is used to dig.
Remember, no proper analogies question will put words in the
question pair that do not share a direct and necessary relationship.
For example, you will never see the words MAN : STRONG used in
the question pair, because they do not share a necessary
relationship. A man may or may not be strong.
Step 2:
Now, use this bridge with each answer choice, inserting them in place of the words in the question pair.
1) A bag iis used tto buy.. Perhaps, but this is not necessarily true. You may use a shopping cart to buy
something. Or, you may use money to buy something. So this doesn’t work.
2) A baby is used to cry. This doesn’t work; a baby isn’t used to do anything.
3) A cloud is used to rain. A cloud produces rain, but a cloud isn’t used to rain. Again, a cloud isn’t
necessarily used to do anything.
4) A fork is used to eat. Here we have a strong relationship. A fork is definitely used to eat. This seems
to be the correct answer, but let’s try the last one just to make sure.
5) A car is used to stop. One of the operations of a car is to stop. However, a car is not necessarily used
to stop. A car is used to travel, or to transport. So, this doesn’t work. Therefore, answer choice #4 must
be the correct answer.
Step 3:
If after completing steps 1 and 2 you still have not found an answer pair that works, then it may be
necessary to adjust the bridge sentence. Let’s look back at our original example:
Function Bridge:
1) bag : buy
2) baby : cry
3) cloud : rain
4) fork : eat
5) car : stop
It may be that our original bridge was not strong enough. Imagine if
our bridge was: A shovel may be used to dig.
Now, it is possible to come up with two correct answers:
1) A bag may be used to buy.
4) A fork may be used to eat.
Our original bridge wasn’t strong enough. Therefore, we need to
strengthen our bridge by making it more specific, and repeat steps 1
and 2.

Classic Analogy Bridges

englishforeveryone.org

Clasic Analogy Bridges

The best strategy to use when completing analogies problems is the bridge sentence strategy. Bridge sentences are helpful because they enable the student to instantly recognize the answer pair by plugging it into the bridge sentence formulated from the question pair. If the bridge sentence works with both the question pair and answer pair, then you know you have found the correct answer. To learn more about bridge sentences, please look at the following examples:
Function Bridge:
1) bag : buy
2) baby : cry
3) cloud : rain
4) fork : eat
5) car : stop
A shovel is used to dig.
A fork is used to eat.
Degree Bridge:
1) hard : difficult
2) hot : warm
3) funny : hilarious
4) right : wrong
5) young : new
Something that is extremely bad is terrible.
Something that is extremely funny is hilarious.
Lack Bridge:
1) serious : humor
2) painful : happiness
3) old : age
4) hot : heat
5) sweet : strength
Something ugly lacks beauty.
Something serious lacks humor.
Characteristic Bridge:
1) man : strong
2) time : fast
3) money : powerful
4) movie : exciting
5) fire : hot
A characteristic of a candy is to be sweet.
A characteristic of a fire is to be hot.
Definition Bridge:
1) plant : flower
2) lamb : sheep
3) shirt : sweater
4) pond : lake
5) wind : fire
By definition, an adult boy is a man.
By definition, an adult lamb is a sheep.
Type/Kind Bridge:
1) knee : leg
2) rose : flower
3) automobile : car
4) pencil : paper
5) school : punishment
A wrench is a type of tool.
A rose is a type of flower.
Part to Whole Bridge:
1) ball : game
2) clock : room
3) wheel : car
4) hat : suit
5) man : woman
A finger is part of a hand.
A wheel is part of a car.
Other:
1) plant : tree
2) bag : jacket
3) suit : watch
4) necklace : neck
5) mountain : ocean
A ring is worn around the finger.
A necklace is worn around the neck.
Other:
1) ants : city
2) humans : barn
3) birds : nest
4) snakes : house
5) bears : hotel
Bees make their home in a hive.
Birds make their home in a nest.

Navigation

Gifted and Talent Development

District 196 GTD Information

Valley GTD Information

Contact

Contact

Contact

Enrichments Beyond the Classroom

More VMSS GTD Information

Center for Talent Development

Links

Three-Step Method

Three-Step Method for Solving Analogies Problems

Classic Analogy Bridges

Clasic Analogy Bridges

Analogy Worksheets

GT Analogy Worksheets

Valley Middle School of STEM