ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides teachers with strategies that can be implemented both in mixed-ability or cluster-grouped classrooms, as well as homogeneously grouped gifted and talented classes. The strategies are designed for students in grades 3-8. The three domains addressed by the strategies include: assessment, content, and instruction. Assessment consists of activities that yield information that can be used for placement, programming decisions, and monitoring student progress. Content consists of the major ideas, concepts, facts, and skills related to an area of study. Effective curriculum models for advanced or gifted learners favor an inquiry-based model of instruction and promote providing instruction at an accelerated rate. Teachers may use the materials for their students and have permission to share materials for single-class-room use. Planning for differentiation and then implementing it in diverse classrooms requires knowledge, time, and expertise.
