Alpha is the new name for McKinney I.S.D.'s Gifted and Talented Program. It was formally known as S.T.A.R. This year has been a new beginning. At Burks, we have a new teacher, Sylvia Barrett. We meet each Monday in the computer lab.
The students who participate in the Alpha program have learned a lot about technology in the last two years. We were the first kids in the school to learn how to demonstrate our presentations using PowerPoint and Hyperstudio. We even had ACT Academy students come and help us use technology. We have been able to help our classmates learn these exciting new tools.
Last year, Mrs. Cross, our teacher at the time, asked us to learn how to make a web page for Burks Elementary. Students interviewed all of the teachers and typed the interviews on the webpage. We learned to choose backgrounds and to scan pictures. This is how the Burks Web Page began.
This year, we've had many new experiences. We have studied tessellations. Inspired by the artwork of M.C. Escher, we created interlocking, puzzle-like designs using the computer. We then transformed them into calendars. Some of our other favorite activities include pre-algebraic equations and mental math. Also, using Print Shop, we created business cards for our staff as a service project. This has allowed us to learn about desktop publishing and layout. Currently, we are studying Ancient Egypt. We have built models of pyramids, made clay tablets, created mummies and written our names in hieroglyphics. We've also just finished a "Rising Star" poetry and writing contest, in which in which one third grade student's poetry was published in the state magazine, "Young Texan Tales".
O drift, drift, drift the autumn leaves fall.
O crunch, crunch, crunch, as we step on them all.
O yellow, orange, and red,
You make such a colorful bed.
O leaves, you fall instantly without leaving a key,
Falling on my head and ticking all of me.
Please, don't leave,
Just stay 'til Christmas Eve.
I really know you can't, and you have to go away,
So your color in my memory always will stay.
Alpha is exciting! We have learned a lot about creativity and technology.