The Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) enables qualifying 4th and 5th graders to take the 8th grade Explore Test in 5th and/or 6th grade, and the SATs or ACTs in 7th grade. Currently, enrollment is open to 4th and 5th graders through March 20 who have scored at least a 95 on one of the accepted nationally standardized tests (in Wake County this would be the CogAT and Iowa Test of Basic Skills). Duke TIP accepts composite scores or subtest scores, and I believe scores of 95 or higher on the End-of-Grade (EOGs). Here is the link to the 4th and 5th grade Duke TIP enrollment page: http://www.tip.duke.edu/talent_searches/grades_4-5/
These students also qualify to enroll in the 7th grade Duke TIP, which allows you the option of exposing your child to the SATs or ACTs in 7th grade. Enrollment for this year has ended, but will resume in September for students who will be in 7th grade next year. The SATs or ACTs are typically taken in December and January of their 7th grade year. Here is the link to the 7th grade Duke TIP enrollment page:
http://www.tip.duke.edu/talent_searches/grade_7/
The fees for both TIPs are well worth every penny, since WCPSS provides no other nationally standardized test scores to compare your child to during elementary school other than the CogATs and ITBS in 3rd grade. Remember, EOGs measure progress based only on state standards. The Explore test scores and explanations actually helped me understand my son's academic progress better than the EOGs did. (I recommend the Explore Test in 5th grade as opposed to 6th grade so your child has a year off before he/she has to take the SATs in 7th grade.) Hope this info helps.
To parents who have experience with Duke TIP, please feel free to post your comments about this here.
I don't see the benefit for testing at early grade of 4th/5th grade. Sound like Duke's extending the TIP more for the their bottomline than actually benefiting kids. There programs are quite expensive too.
ReplyDeleteI took the SAT at an early age too, and I have to say that it has certainly helped me become aware of what the test was actually like, instead of the overgrown fish tale that teachers and parents make it up to be. yes, Duke TIP costs some money, but all in all, I do think it's a great experience for your child, and one that will no doubt benefit them in the future.
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