The PETS program is implemented with students at the elementary schools in kindergarten through second grade.
PETS follows the taxonomy outlined by Benjamin Bloom, presenting lessons in analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Characters are used in the lessons and serve as a guide through the story to introduce and reinforce a type of thinking. The characters include: Dudley the Detective, Isabel the Inventor, Sybil the Scientist, Yolanda the Yarnspinner, Max the Magician, and Jordan the Judge.
The entire class is given the opportunity to experience the challenge of the new thinking skill. Students are also given further opportunities to explore the thinking skills in smaller groups. These activities stimulate students with high interest, challenging exercises, many of which are hands-on.
PETS is a program that serves a dual purpose. One is teaching students higher level thinking skills such as divergent, convergent, and evaluative thinking and visual/ spatial perception. It also helps in the identification of academically talented students.
The PETS program is used as a screening tool to help identify talented students early. It enables teachers to implement a curriculum that will best suit a student’s special needs. All students benefit from exposure to higher level thinking skills.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me at NKES, 966-9663, or GWES, 966-9660, voice mail extension 5221.