In this article the author reports on a continued effort to evaluate programs for the gifted that includes examining the curriculum that is used, the ways it is implemented in classrooms, and the outcome data that districts have collected about its effectiveness. The author adds that the heart of program evaluation really lies with how effectively…

This quasi-experimental study examines the effects on student performance of a Javits-funded curriculum designed to respond to the needs of high-ability students in elementary and middle school social studies. The curriculum, implemented with all students in heterogeneous classrooms, addresses state standards while integrating advanced content,…

To develop scope and sequence in the gifted curriculum in Gary (Indiana) Community Schools, a curriculum needs assessment was conducted. A curriculum framework was then developed by identifying desired educational outcomes, examining the gifted programs across levels and content disciplines, and linking the outcome statements to curriculum…

This study evaluated the William and Mary curriculum units in science and language arts for high ability learners after 3 years of implementation in several suburban elementary and middle schools. Findings suggested that the curriculum was viewed positively by relevant groups, that the innovation had been integrated into district policies, and…

Explores a curriculum-review process for assessing how a specialized secondary school for the gifted might improve its programs and services. The review process used document review, interviews, focus groups, and classroom-observation techniques to arrive at recommendations and an action plan. (Author)

Joe Renzulli asserts that pull-out programs for gifted elementary school children that reflect horizontal enrichment and vertical acceleration can provide flexibility and enable radical departures from the regular curriculum. Joyce VanTassel-Baska counters that current pull-out programs are inadequately planned, provide insufficient time, are…

This concept paper outlines the rationale for a project on the development of science curriculum for K-8 high ability learners. The rationale was developed through a synthesis of major recommendations from national science reform reports and from a review of the literature on effective science curriculum for high ability learners. The paper begins…

This text on curriculum planning and instructional design for gifted students is based on a planning model and an instructional model. The planning model acknowledges the important roles of curriculum planners, of task analysis, and of the educational climate of a school. The instructional model emphasizes the characteristics of gifted learners,…