Academic competitions challenge gifted learners to apply knowledge under pressure, think creatively, collaborate, and excel beyond classroom assessments. Competitions span all disciplines and grade levels (ex. mathematics, science, humanities, engineering) offering platforms for students to deepen interests and gain recognition. Here are a few competitions with which I am familiar:
Future Problem Solving (FPS)– From the FPSPI website: “Our problem solvers learn how to think, not what to think, and gain lifelong skills.” I used to be a coach for FPS teams in middle school and in 5th grade. This organization and competition is SO. MUCH. FUN. It also has several branches of programs.
Continental Math League (CML)– I used to run this open-ended, 6-question monthly math challenge across my schools from grades 2-7. I even discovered one or two gifted students through the competition, and I sponsored a weekly parent-led CML breakfast club, too. Continental Math League now has academic competitions in all content areas:
National History Day (NHD)– History and writing competitions NHD like provide students opportunities to research historical topics and present findings through papers, exhibits, or documentaries.
ExploraVision National Science Competition– I did this competition one year with a few teams of 5th grade gifted students. What I liked about it is that it was connected to the National Science Teachers Association as well as many large innovation companies (such as Toshiba).
From their website: The ExploraVision competition for K-12 students engages the next generation in real world problem solving with a strong emphasis on STEM. ExploraVision challenges students to envision and communicate new technology 10 or more years in the future through collaborative brainstorming and research of current science and technology.
There are many, many more academic competitions for all ages of gifted students as well as any student who is interested in a high level of challenge after school. Participating in a range of competitions allows students to see learning as dynamic rather than static. Schools can support students by offering preparation clubs, mentoring from faculty, and platforms to reflect on competition experiences in portfolios.
What competitions does your school offer for gifted and high ability students? List them in the comments below! ~Ann
Teaching for Talent 