Paradise Valley Unified School District

for middle school students
Located at Sunrise Middle School, 4960 E. Acoma Dr., Scottsdale

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Program Objective

A project-based learning environment that embodies 21st century learning through ubiquitous technology, featuring literature integration within the content area.

The program, based on innovative instructional practices for authentic learning, incorporates and features:

• Teaching that is student centered with the instructor acting as a resource and guide.
  Integration of core academic coursework & standards through thematic relationships and dichotomies
• Inquiry and project-based learning for exploring themes
• Extensive collaboration for student produced outcomes
• A global perspective that cultivates 21st century learners

Curriculum & Instruction:

Course content is based on major thematic elements found in the Arizona State Standards in Social Studies, Science, Technology, and Reading for seventh grade and eighth gradess, as well as national standards endorsed by the NCSS, NSTA, ISTE, and NCTE. By featuring thematic elements, the content encompasses multiple subjects simultaneously.

> The seventh grade year

> The eighth grade year

• Digital Learning Center: Literature, Social Studies (7) or Science (8), Technology
• Writing class — The Honors Writing teacher works exclusively with the students in the DLC and collaborates with the DLC teachers to support project-based learning with a unified team approach.
• Social Studies or Science class— Based on the grade level, students receive instruction in the content area not covered in the DLC. Honors options are available to provide further differentiation to gifted learners..
• Math class — MS or HS math placement (based on previous math placement)
• Depending upon the student's schedule, elective options include the following:
  • Foreign Language — Spanish 1-2
  • Fine Arts — chorus, band, strings or drama
  • Physical Education

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Student Colloquia

Students planning to participate in the program (during the next academic school year) take part in student workshops held in the spring of the year preceding entry.

Objectives of Colloquia:

• Prepare students for project-based learning
• Familiarize students with technology used in the center
• Introduce students to open source curriculum and social dimensions of technology
• Learn the fundamentals of collaborative learning

This approach minimizes the use of valuable class time for orientation. Colloquium topics range from a program overview to project-based learning and time management strategies for students to prepare students for this unique learning experience. Colloquia facilitators include, but are not limited to, teaching staff and program administrators.

Application & Admission Process

Registration for the school year 2012-13 is now open. Applications for the DLC, along with an application process overview and video, are posted on this site. Applications may be sent to the PV Schools Gifted Education Dept. via e-mail, fax, mail, or hand delivered. All applications are evaluated monthly via a blind review process. Parents are notified of admittance status by mail.

Minimum Requirements:

Gifted Qualification at:

• 97% or higher in two areas: verbal, quantitative, or non-verbal (e.g., 97V; 99Q; 86NV)
  
• OR 97% or higher in one area, PLUS 90% or higher in the other two areas (e.g., 97V; 95Q; 96NV)
• OR IQ of 135 or higher
  
• PLUS – Meets or Exceeds on AIMS in Reading, Writing and Math in the previous year's testing

Students will be expected to:

• Be self-directed and self-motivated learners
• Have a desire to investigate social and educational dimensions of information technology
• Be interested in information technology and digital learning processes

Digital Learning Center Application Process

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