Benefits of Participation

Each qualifying participant enrolled in the 4th/5th Grade Talent Search receives these benefits:

• Online Opportunities
• Merit Packet
• Academic 411
• Writing Contest
• EXPLORE Testing
• EXPLORE Recognition

Online Opportunities

Once an application is processed at Duke TIP, participants will receive a postcard (if they registered by paper application) or an e-mail (if they registered online) confirming enrollment and directing them to three exciting opportunities:

• Story Writing: Spin Me a Yarn—Through this online creative writing lesson, students will learn how to write a great story by developing charismatic characters, powerful plots, sensational settings, thoughtful themes, and much more!
• In the Book Club, you will read great books and you'll have the chance to share your ideas about the book with other Duke TIP students all over the country! You'll also find fun on-line activities in language arts, math, social studies, or science—all tied in to the book that you're reading.
• Educational Opportunity Guide Online—This exclusive online directory contains listings of quality schools and exciting summer programs for children in grades PreK-12.

If you are a student who does not have access to a computer at home, arrange to go to your local library or school library to gain access to these online opportunities!

Merit Packet

The Merit Packet is mailed in May of the participant's enrolling year and includes:

Certificate of Achievement
An award for participation in the 4th/5th Grade Talent Search recognizing the student's outstanding abilities and achievements.

Staying on Course

A valuable resource for parents and students containing:

• articles written by professionals in the field of gifted education;
• listings of organizations, competitions, and contests;
• suggestions for home activities.

The Navigator newsletter

The official newsletter for 4th/5th Grade Talent Search—participating students will receive issues through their 6th grade year. Articles and activities help students:

• develop a wide-range of interests,
• learn about new opportunities, and
• spark their creative instincts.

Students also have many opportunities to submit their own work. The Navigator is mailed twice a year in the spring and the fall. Sample Issue

Duke Gifted Letter (DGL)
Included in the spring and fall issues of the Navigator, the Duke Gifted Letter provides valuable information and resources for parents of bright youth who are helping them navigate the educational and developmental challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. It offers a free online subscription, searchable database of articles, and user blogs. DGL is available online at www.dukegiftedletter.com.

Academic 411

In July of each year, participants receive this publication that offers articles covering topics that are both fun and educational. Many are written by students who relate their personal experiences participating in academically and socially challenging activities.

Writing Contest

In December of the participant's 5th and 6th grade year, Duke TIP offers the opportunity to enter a writing contest with cash prizes awarded to the winners and their school. Click here to read the 2008 winning entries.

• 2008 contest information and guidelines »

EXPLORE Testing

4th/5th Grade Talent Search students can learn more about their academic talents by taking the EXPLORE test. The EXPLORE test was developed by ACT for 8th graders to evaluate their academic development. Duke TIP offers EXPLORE to academically talented elementary students as an above-level test to assess the student's academic level and potential. Testing is only open to current participants in the 4th/5th Grade Talent Search (current participants will be in the fifth or sixth grade). Registration begins in October and testing takes place in January and February of each year. Click here for more EXPLORE test information. Registration for 2009 EXPLORE testing will begin October, 2008.

Results Summary for 2008 Testers

Students participating in EXPLORE testing in January or February 2008 should have received their score reports. The percentile ranking on the score report is compared to the national average of 8th grade students taking EXPLORE. View the 2008 Results Summary here

EXPLORE Recognition

For those students who take EXPLORE and achieve a composite score in the 99th percentile or higher, Duke TIP will honor these students with a medallion for their outstanding achievements.

In January and February 2008, 4,902 4th/5th Grade Talent Search participants took the EXPLORE test. This eighth-grade exam serves as an optional above-level test for fifth and sixth graders in the talent search. The test results and their explanations give students insights into their academic abilities. Testing also allows students to compare their scores with their own academically- advanced peers and with eighth graders. 155 fifth and sixth grade EXPLORE test-takers earned a composite score in the 99th percentile or higher and will receive a Duke TIP medallion in honor of their achievement. Do you see anyone from your state, school, or community? Participants will receive information about EXPLORE testing in September. Next year, perhaps you'll be among the students honored here!

• Talent Searches Overview
• Regions
• Grades 4 – 5
• Grade 7
• International
• FAQs
• Recognition Ceremonies
• Register Online