A "Must Have" for Acceleration Decisions

books:


	• Iowa Acceleration Scale Manual: A Guide for Whole-Grade Acceleration (K-8) 2nd Edition Nicholas Colangelo, Ann, Ph.D. Lupkowski-Shoplik, ... Great Potential Press, 2002 - 144 pages average customer review:based on 2 reviews view larger image
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A "Must Have" for Acceleration Decisions

The Iowa Acceleration Scale (IAS) is a "must have" tool in the process for determining the appropriateness of whole-grade acceleration. What I like most about the IAS is that it is research based and patently objective. The IAS also requires a team approach which only serves to add confidence to whatever decision is ultimately arrived upon. Further, each child is assessed wholistically with individual items weighted based on relevance.

The IAS also provides alternate suggestions for serving the academically advanced child in the event that whole-grade acceleration is not recommended.

The manual is a very easy read and the entire process is user friendly. The IAS Manual removes the mystery and uncertainty from what would typically be a rather difficult task - deciding whether or not to whole-grade accelerate a child in school.

I highly recommend the IAS for any and all parents and educators who find themselves faced with the incredible task of trying to decide how best to meet the educational needs of a bright or gifted child. To borrow (and twist) a line from Shakespeare: If to accelerate or not to accelerate is the question - then the IAS is the answer.

A Note of caution to parents and IAS team members: The IAS process should be open and transparent. All team members should have the opportunity to read and review the manual prior to and during the process. Therefore, be sure the "team leader" does not monopolize the process or attempt to create their own procedure for completion of the IAS. The manual very clearly states the proper procedures to follow to ensure the process flows smoothly - and objectively.

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Wonderful resource!

I refer to this book often when working with families and educators that are considering whole-grade acceleration for a gifted student. This is an invaluable tool that appears to be very user-friendly.