My DS11 has been in a pull-out gifted program since 1rst grade and does well in school both grade-wise and behaviorally. He doesn't talk about being bored, though I noticed he does much more for his most rigorous subject, science. Not only is DS11 shy about his abilities but too often he doesn't believe he's smart. A couple of years ago when the option of subject advancement was presented to him (by us) he wasn't interested.We've always believed in the let-the-child-dictate-the-pace philosophy and thus far, everything's been fine.
When he took the EXPLORE test, one of the goals was to feel comfortable taking tests without pressure. He doesn't do well with timed tests but somehow knowing it was above-level and therefore expectations were different made it not only an easier experience than the EOG tests but he came out smiling.
His (5th grade) scores were:
English: 18
Math: 17
Reading: 22
Science: 21
Composite: 20
These scores are not enough for him to be recognized by DukeTip, but they're quite good from what I've read. Not only were we a bit surprised but now we're thinking maybe we haven't been taking him seriously enough. Should we continue to let him dictate how much and how fast he wants to learn? It's been our way so far, but recently he participated in Odyssey of the Mind competition and he came alive! I've never seen him so engaged.
Thanks in advance for whatever wisdom and insight you have to offer...
