We are in our second week of our Brainology unit! This week we are focusing on intelligence. We will examine different theories of intelligence such as Howard Gardner's 8 Types of Intelligence. Students will complete a Learning Strengths Inventory to help them realize that they possess all 8 types of intelligence but that they may be stronger in one area than in others. Students will develop their personal definition of intelligence. Next week, the focus will be on brain anatomy and functions of the parts of the brain.
Be on the lookout for information about the QUEST t-shirt sale. Shirts will be on sale until October 12, 2012 for $10.00. Students will be able to wear the shirts on their QUEST day and for field trips.
Our big field trip is in the works. Students will be bringing home information this week about this trip that complements our second semester unit "Stalking the Wild Polyhedra". We will be traveling to Huntsville, AL to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center on January 30, 2013. We will tour the MathAlive Exhibit and participate in a classroom lab activity. We will then tour the Space and Rocket Center Museum, Space Camp and try our the simulators. We will have lunch and watch an IMAX movie. The cost for the trip is $80.00 per person. Students can begin paying for the trips in installments to ease the cost burden. The first payment is due by October 5.
The Alabama Association for Gifted Children will hold its annual conference on September 27 and 28 at the McWane Center in Birmingham, AL. This is open to gifted specialists, teachers and parents of gifted children. The keynote speaker this year is Sylvia Rimm. QUEST classes will not meet on September 27 due to the conference.
Finally, I want to encourage all of the QUEST students to strive for excellence this year. Our theme is based on a quote by Benjamin Franklin: "Hide not your talents. They for use are made. What's a sundial in the shade?" As we learn about intelligence and the brain, my wish is for my students to become aware of and to appreciate their special and unique talents and abilities.
