How can Ms. Johnson ensure her gifted student Amanda receives an appropriately challenging education?

• A. Assign her more homework
• B. Enhance group work participation
• C. Conference with Amanda and map a plan together on how to increase rigor
• D. Provide more independent study time

Answer: (C)

Choosing to conference with Amanda and collaboratively map out a plan to increase the rigor of her education is a highly effective approach for several reasons. This method promotes student agency, allowing Amanda to express her interests, strengths, and areas where she feels challenged or uninspired. By involving her in this process, Ms. Johnson can tailor the curriculum to match Amanda's abilities and aspirations, ensuring that the challenges she faces are aligned with her learning style and interests.

Furthermore, this approach fosters a growth mindset, encouraging Amanda to take ownership of her educational journey. It helps build a strong teacher-student relationship where Amanda feels valued and understood. Such a partnership is vital for gifted students, who often benefit from a differentiated approach that recognizes their unique learning needs and potential.

The other options, while they may seem beneficial, do not support an individualized approach. Simply assigning more homework could lead to burnout and frustration, enhancing group work participation may not challenge her at her level, and providing more independent study time might miss the mark if not paired with concrete goals and guidance tailored to her needs. Thus, engaging directly with Amanda to develop a challenging and personalized plan is the most effective strategy for ensuring she receives an appropriately challenging education.