When to use Extension packages

[netpea]

I am thinking of placing my two kids in CTC this year. The 9 year old will be in 4th grade and the 11 year old will be in 6th grade. The guide says it is for ages 9-11 but extends for grades 6 and 7. If he's 11 but a 6th grader, does he need the extension package? Is the program enough for 6th grade as is? I would think most 11 year olds are 6 graders if they started kindergarten at age 5. Sorry I'm just a bit confused today.

[Kathleen]

He's probably right on the edge of whether you'd need the extensions or not. (How's that for a helpful reply? ) I know that my "6th grader" will be 11 when we begin 6th grade...and still when we end because of a late spring birthday. I'm sure that some 6th graders turn 12 in September or December or February.

I think with the extensions, you'll want to look at skills more though. It reccommends that if you don't do the extensions (even with a child of the "extension age"), to read aloud the history set of storytime books. So, maybe, start with CtC as-is with the history read-alouds, and then see if you think your son needs more work or if there is adequate challenge in doing what is already there well? (I think that's what I'd do.)

I can't remember if I've seen that in Preparing or CtC the extensions and their follow-ups are meant to be done in addition to or in place of the independent history box. Don't know if that will make a difference as you're deciding. Maybe Carrie or Julie could clear that up if they get on the board.

Kathleen