The thing about GT/AAP in FCPS, at least, is that the workload is not that much more. The problems require more critical thinking at the expense of drill and practice. For some, the apparent workload is actually less than Gen ED

Wow, pp, what you don't know about elementary school is a LOT. They are SO teaching algebra in elementary.
Don't compare the GT program of 20 years ago to today's programs.
It seems as if you think that today's GT program is full of overworked, joyless kids who are being stuffed full of algebra. Nothing could be further from the truth.

New poster here, haven't read the entire thread, but in my opinion it is totally inappropriate for a teacher to recommend G&T, or for that matter, a vodka and tonic, or any other alcoholic beverage. These are kids, for crying out loud. Kudos to you for not going along with the suggestion.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What grade is she in?

OP: Third. Which is another thing. I didn't do G&T until middle school growing up, so not sure what the point is at the elementary grades.

This in bold. I think it's too much work too soon in elem school. Let the kids have fun and play. There will be enough time to get serious in middle and high school. Besides, it's not like they are teaching algebra in elem school.

and if these posts did help the poster make up her mind, what is it to you?

Anonymous wrote:I decided to just try GT. If we don't like it we'll go back.

i hope it's not these posts on DCUM that converted you...

No harm in trying. Good for you.

I decided to just try GT. If we don't like it we'll go back.

I can't imagine overloading a child with work from pullout! More information is needed from the other parents in the same program. I definitely asked good friends whose children were in our AAP program what the deal was on homework. All said "no big deal" and they were right.

but it's not even an AAP. it's Arlington's pull out service. not sure why OP's so against it. perhaps her own GT experience wasn't great. dunno.

Pp, ita

If your kid is deemed eligible for AAP, it means that many educational professionals think that your child CAN handle the curriculum and pace of the class.
It's a myth that AAP means your kid is loaded up with homeowork every night.
My 3rd grader still does an average of 30 minutes of homework a night...just like last year. The difference is in the type of work being done...more projects, 4th grade math (not that hard says the kid), and more in depth study of a subject. The kid is definitely happy to be in the class.
Again, even though it's AAP it shouldn't take more than 30 minutes a night, and it doesn't. If your kid is AAP material, it's not going to be a problem. My 3rd grader still has time to play and does a couple of after school activities.

I think you owe your kid looking into that and other options. You kid could end up underworked and bored senseless. That is NOT good.

Just get some info...at least have the kid tested so you know what you are working with and can make a plan.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What grade is she in?

OP: Third. Which is another thing. I didn't do G&T until middle school growing up, so not sure what the point is at the elementary grades.

I had a G&T pull-out in elementary school, and it was the highlight of school for me. This was in a different state and a different time, but we did amazing projects and units. Wish my kids had the same opportunities as I had.

I actually briefly thought about having my kid not going to AAP after accepted.
In the regualar classes, my kid would be the smartest one, would be easier to develop confidence and leadership.
Can do other activities like music lession, sports, etc on spare time.

So there are some pros in it, but I ended up sending my kid to AAP for more proper challenges.
You can always go back to regular classe.