At Science Academy of Chicago, we offer a Gifted Program in two subject areas: Mathematics and English Language Arts. Identified students are pulled out students are pulled out weekly to work with a to work with a dedicated gifted teacher in a small-group setting designed to extend and enrich their learning.
At SAC, our core math curriculum is already accelerated—students typically learn math one grade level ahead (for example, 3rd graders study 4th grade math standards). Because of this, our Gifted Math Program focuses not simply on acceleration, but on deepening comprehension, strengthening critical thinking skills, and developing advanced problem-solving abilities.
Students engage in:
Logic puzzles and brain teasers
Hands-on math games
Mathematical riddles
Multi-step “brain burner” challenges
Higher-level problem-solving tasks
Our goal is to help students think flexibly, creatively, and analytically.
The Gifted ELA Program focuses on advanced reading comprehension, critical analysis, vocabulary development, and enriched writing experiences. Students explore deeper text analysis, structured discussions, and creative and analytical writing tasks that challenge them beyond grade-level expectations.
At the beginning of each school year, all students take the MAP Growth (NWEA) assessment in Math and Reading.
Students who score at or above the 90th percentile in Math or Reading become eligible to take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT).
Following CogAT testing, results are reviewed in consultation with the Northwestern University Center for Talent Development (CTD).
Based on assessment data and expert consultation, students are selected for participation in the Gifted Program.
For more information about the CogAT assessment, please click here.