2021- 2022 MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHOLARS’ PROGRAM INFORMATION 

The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) is requiring that each MSSP course in which your student participates, must consistently reflect one or more of your student’s area(s) of gifted identification (superior cognitive, creative thinking, reading, math, science, and/or social studies). If you are unsure of your child’s area(s) of gifted identification, you may contact the district gifted coordinator or the MSSP teachers for clarification. When we are back in our normal school situation, students are required to take 5 periods of MSSP courses per week to participate in the program.  This can be adjusted during online learning based on the number of synchronous hours students have their core classes.

The MSSP classes are listed below with the area(s) of gifted identification needed to participate in the course:

In addition to the previously mentioned requirements, the ODE requires that subjects chosen for research and study in Guided Independent Projects must be within the student’s area of gifted identification. 

Descriptions of all courses are on the back of this sheet.MSSP COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 2021 - 2022 

Periods may be adjusted while we are doing online learning.

BETWEEN THE LINES                                2 periods per week

Do you enjoy reading thought provoking literature?  Between The Lines will encourage you to analyze and interpret the works of various writers and artists.  This is an opportunity for you to share opinions and develop critical thinking skills through a study of selected novels, short stories, plays, films, poetry, folk tales, and essays.  You will have a chance to read and discuss a variety of genres of literature.

CREATIVE DESIGN                                1 period per week

Explore various STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) topics through hands-on building activities using critical thinking strategies and intensive research.  Possible activities include designing and making small vehicles and flying devices, balsa wood bridges/towers, simple/compound machines, and bottle rockets.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN                            1 period per week

Explore various STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) topics through designing and conducting hands-on experiments using creative problem solving, logical thinking skills, and the Scientific Method.  Possible topics for experiments include food chemistry, forensics, optics, environmental chemistry, and genetics.

FIND OUT - Required (6th grade only)                                                       1 period per week

Find Out is an opportunity for you to share your experiences and opinions with classmates in a supportive environment.  Topics include the nature and needs of the gifted and talented, executive functioning skills, time management, self-awareness, group dynamics/peer support and other concerns you might have as a sixth grade MSSP student.  You will participate in projects and activities, which will enable you to learn more about yourself and those around you.  Lift your spirits, as you FIND OUT more about you!

FLEX - Friendship, Leadership and Executive Functions - Required (7th grade only)     1 period per week    

Share the excitement of group discussion as you explore some expectations and choices that will influence your future.  Topics in FLEX include the nature and needs of the gifted and talented, executive functioning skills, positive self-concept, stress management, perfectionism, interpersonal relationships, leadership, and establishing personal goals. This is your chance to express your opinions and network with your peers.

GLOBAL ISSUES                                                           2 periods per week

Global Issues gives you an opportunity to engage in stimulating discussions on a broad spectrum of international issues.  You will examine divergent points of view, establish a thoughtful base for rational decision-making and arrive at alternative solutions for universal coexistence.  Much of the first semester will usually be devoted to preparing for participation as a delegate in a Model United Nations simulation, an international peacekeeping organization.  Your delegation members will research your country in depth, learning about its people, culture, and language.  It is unknown how/if Cleveland Council for World Affairs will conduct their simulation this year.

GUIDED INDEPENDENT PROJECTS                           1-4 periods per week

Guided Independent Projects makes you the investigator.  You will investigate and develop project(s) on topic(s) within your area(s) of gifted identification, which you will share with your peers.  This course provides a forum for you to share the results of your in-depth exploration of an idea, topic, or area of interest.  Guided Independent Projects may be taken for one period per week or you may choose to add an additional period, in which to research and prepare your findings.

INNOVATIVE THINKING                                     1 period per week

Do you enjoy brainstorming, problem solving, and thinking outside of the box? Innovative Thinking will allow you to develop meta-cognitive techniques to creatively solve problems, look at different points of view, and adapt to unusual situations.   Bring your imagination and let your brain soar!