Why this prelude and why the sorry? Because I just realised that there are readers *blush*. Never thought of that. And that the nice readers leave comments. I just found out. And hence just published it. Some questions, because too old, are no longer relevant (and I believe no one is still expecting the answer). Sincerely I am sorry... I hope with technology I will be able to reply in time for the future.
Now, it is the season of GEP screening :D
This is related to my older post. I think at that time, my No 1 was having it. No 1 didn’t get in, but No 2 did. So below are my thoughts... hope it is useful.
What is GEP?
Gifted Education Programme (GEP) is targetted for high ability children in Singapore. These children, learn deeper and wider topics in English Math Science and Social Study. Plus with projects too. It is a 3 years (well 2.5 years if you count PSLE prep) from P4 to P6.
How is the screening being done?
Currently there are two rounds of test. Both are similar, but the second one is harder and more extensive. I have not seen the papers, but I heard from my kids they are like math IQ question with English comprehension.
Is it more expensive?
No. If the child is selected, and choose to join, the program is done in some primary schools in Singapore. No additional cost. Half joking : but you need to pay additional hours to do it.
How different is the program vs mainstream syllabus?
First year was a shock for us. It’s been an eye opener to see what a 10 year old can do. It’s really amazing. The Gifted Ed Branch did a good job in preparing the parents mentally, and in providing close mini counselling for the children.
Example of different requirement: if normal composition requirement is 140 words, in GEP it is common for an essay assignment requiring 700-1500 words (may not be accurate but hope you get the gist). Likewise for comprehension. The text is like 2 pages long in font 12 single spacing.
And, the Teachers are really well equipped for challenging questions from curious minds. I’m also very impressed on how they can teach. I couldn’t until now think of how to teach a child to do above comprehension test within limited time. How to spot the info and how to know what the questions are asking about.
A few parents I know really put in lots of time in helping their kids coping (with assignment tracking, preparing for presentation, projects, teaching, ...). But I managed to go fairly unscathed. Only more nagging because really the work can snowball unless it’s done regularly. For quality of work, I believe in letting the kid go by own effort. To be sent for competition or being top of the class is never my target.
What to prepare for the test?
There are tutors and centers focused on GEP Test preparation. My personal take, don’t. For the sole reason that if a child need to prepare for the test to pass, the child will need to work really hard to catch up. Of course, likewise, there are again tutors and centers offering GEP curriculums lesson to help the kid coping. But it really takes away the enjoyment. Related to my last question below. Keep reading... or scroll through...
Are the children suffering?
Despite the high workload, No 2 is having a good time. Every few months when I saw him buried deep in homework I asked whether he regretted joining the program (fun trivia: the child need to sign that he wants to join). His answer is always a firm no. He really enjoy the mind challenge and most importantly to be among likeminded friends.
Emotionally will they still get to be a child?
Ooo yeah! Still mischievous as ever. For sports and arts they are combined with the mainstreams children. Plus of course there’s CCA.
How is the assessment and passing rate?
In the briefing, we were told that passing rate is 70%. Failed case in meeting this is really rare. Not because it’s easy, but because the teachers will guide the children and parents will be engaged if necessary. Test papers are standardised among all GEP primary school. If I’m not wrong, the Teachers also can cross mark (meaning the work may be marked by another school teacher).
Why social study?
One more unique feature of GEP is the serious social study test. Why, I have not seek a formal answer. But I do believe in the need to balance high ability with social consciousness. So this is only my guess. I include this question to highlight that the program is quite well rounded.
Last question... related to test prep question above:
All in all, is GEP prog more superior than mainstream?
When I got my first baby, I read that study shows children that can read faster are not necessarily more successful in life. Of course depends on success definition. That advise refer to regular perceived success. Likewise for GEP. Of course I don’t know the adult outcome yet. But I do believe the early exposure is beneficial to a certain extend only.
My No 1 was in mainstream but she managed to join an IP school with plenty ex-GEP friends. So comparing the two:
* GEP do prepare for IP. For the first year, I saw ex-GEPpers were better equipped. The thinking and work process are very similar.
* But, after the first year, ex-mainstreams can catch up. No issue. Ex GEPpers seem like more interested in those mentorship research program, moot parliament, ... could be related to their exposure to research and social study.
* Both groups have equal leadership and non acad talents. Some super kids can really grab it all. Art sport leadership acad all top notch. But honest to goodness there are only how many of this kind. Let the child find their own passion balance is better in my view.
And, No 2 believes that there are smarter kids that didn’t get selected. Either because they were not in optimum condition during test or because they’re not so interested in answering acad questions.
If your child is going for the test, all the best. Let him/her knows no need to be so stressed, just have fun. Both outcome are alright.
If your child has been selected, congrats, you got a ticket for an exciting ride.
Note: this post is a pure opinion. Please don’t shoot me. And no compensation in any form from anyone.
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