Spectrum Program Description

What is Spectrum?

The Spectrum Program is designed to develop the academic potential of talented young adolescents by offering an opportunity to take enrichment or accelerated courses, study with master teachers, and interact with intellectual and age peers in academic and social settings. Based on tested aptitude, Spectrum matches students with appropriate learning experiences, and emphasizes an approach to teaching that underscores strengths and encourages high achievement. Additionally, it offers extracurricular enrichment experiences that broaden young adolescents' knowledge of the world.

Overview

Spectrum is open to eligible students completing 7th or 8th grade; students completing 9th grade may also apply to Spectrum and will be considered on a case-by-case basis. With both residential and commuter options, the program achieves a balance of academic and social activities. Students take one challenging, intensive, fast-paced course while enjoying a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Academics

For some students the goal is purely academic enrichment, while for other participants, Spectrum is an opportunity to complete a one-year or one-semester high school honors-level course during a three-week session. Most Spectrum courses are taught in the traditional instructor-led format, but a few of the math courses are structured as Individually Paced (IP). IP math courses are designed for students with the interest and ability to accelerate their study of mathematics and who can assume significant responsibility for their own learning. Students work independently through the course material and at their own pace. Participants receive support and individual attention from the instructor and teaching assistant who oversee the course.  Mastery must be demonstrated to move to subsequent chapters in the text. Students who do not complete the entire course may continue their work through the Gifted Learning Links Summer Bridges distance-learning program.  There is an additional cost for this accommodation.

All Spectrum courses meet five hours a day, five days a week. All courses require several hours of homework daily, and teaching assistants are available to students both in and out of class. Twice each week students also attend evening study sessions led by their teaching assistant.

Click here for the list of 2008 Spectrum courses.

The Spectrum Program is also held at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH for commuters.
Click here to learn more.