Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program: Grade 4

Description

The Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program targets reading comprehensionskills in high-ability learners by moving students through an inquiry process frombasic understanding to critical analyses of texts, using a field-tested methoddeveloped by the Center for Gifted Education at William and Mary. Students in grade4 will learn to comprehend and analyze any reading passage after completing theactivities in Jacob's Ladder, Grade 4 (2nd ed.). Research conducted by the Center for Gifted Education with Title 1 studentsdemonstrated that the Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program deliversresults related to improved reading comprehension, increased critical thinking, and anenhanced interest in reading.

The Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary, a research and development center, was established in 1988 under the direction of Dr. Joyce VanTassel-Baska. The center provides services to educators, policy makers, graduate students, researchers, parents, and students in support of the needs of gifted and talented individuals. Located in Williamsburg, VA, the center has established a national reputation for excellence in research, curriculum development, and service. Several major grants, including funding from the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Act, have provided significant support for the work of the Center. Joyce VanTassel-Baska, Ed.D., is the Jody and Layton Smith Professor Emerita of Education and former Executive Director of the Center for Gifted Education at William & Mary in Virginia, where she developed a graduate program and a research and development center in gifted education. She also initiated and directed the Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University.