I just found out about NUMATS (Northwestern University's Midwest Academic Talent Search) but I don't really understand what it is or how it could be beneficial. Can any gifted students out there shed some light on this for me?
Absolutely! My kiddo participated a few years back. NUMATS is essentially a program that offers above-grade-level testing for talented students. It's designed for those who typically score in the 95th percentile or above on standardized tests. Students take assessment tests like the SAT, ACT, or PSAT 8/9 earlier than their peers, giving insights into their abilities and potential areas for growth.
How is it beneficial? Well, participating in NUMATS can qualify students for gifted programs and provide access to resources and enrichment activities tailored to advanced learners. It's also a great way for students to challenge themselves and get a feel for college entrance exams ahead of time. My child found it quite helpful as it set the stage for future test prep and we also used the scores to guide their advanced course selections in high school. If your child gets excited by academic challenges and testing, NUMATS can be a really rewarding experience.
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