Choosing an Age Appropriate Curriculum

A child's biological age does not always correlate with his "readiness" - a childs ability to comprehend a concept or develop a skill. Because of this, Moving Beyond the Page is not structured around grade levels - Kindergarten, First Grade, etc. Instead, it is structured around recommended age levels. The age level suggests the recommended age of children using the curriculum. Note that each age level (ex: 5-7 Years) represents one full academic year (~ 36 weeks) of curriculum.

Moving Beyond the Page is a challenging curriculum designed to stretch children. The goal of education is not that a child get all the right answers. It is more important that he become an independent thinker, be introduced to new skills, and understand complex ideas. Being successful in this curriculum does not mean that your child will get all the "right answers", but rather that you see your child thinking and learning. A child that receives 100% on every activity is likely not being stretched. Conversely, a student who is constantly frustrated is probably working in a curriculum that is too advanced.

The curriculum is written to challenge gifted learners. If you feel your child is gifted, select the curriculum that has your child's age at the lower end of the age level. For example, if you have a gifted six year old, you will want to choose the 6-8 curriculum. For a gifted 7 year old, the 7-9 curriculum is most appropriate.

If your child is performing on grade level, it is best to choose a curriculum that has her age in the middle. For example, an on grade level 6 year old would do well in the 5-7 curriculum. This 7 year old would do best in the 6-8 curriculum.

If you feel your child is below grade level, you should choose a curriculum that has his age at the top end of the range. For example, a 7 year old that is currently below grade level would be most successful in the 5-7 curriculum.

Many parents have asked if they can use the Age 7-9 curriculum with a gifted eight year old child. The answer is yes. Most of the science and social studies concepts will be challenging for eight year olds. It is important to remember that gifted students don't just need acceleration, they also need enrichment. The literature units can be used effectively with children up to age 10. Moving Beyond the Page extends knowledge, looks at ideas from different perspecitives, and encourages students to go "beyond" - challenging them to higher-level thinking.

Furthermore, if you have a precociously gifted child, you may determine to advance them to the next age level. Remember these are only guidelines.

"General" Guidelines For Choosing Curriculum

• Age 5-7 Curriculum
  • Gifted 5 Year Old
  • On Grade Level 6 Year Old
  • Below Grade Level 7 Year Old
• Age 6-8 Curriculum
  • Gifted 6 Year Old
  • On Grade Level 7 Year Old
  • Below Grade Level 8 Year Old
• Age 7-9 Curriculum
  • Gifted 7 Year Old
  • On Grade Level 8 Year Old*
  • Below Grade Level 9 Year Old**