WHAT IS GIFTEDNESS?

Learning Characteristics

• Has unsually advanced vocabulary for age or grade level
• Has quick mastery and recall of factual information
• Wants to know what makes things or people “tick”
• Usually “sees more” or “gets more” out of a story, film, etc.  than others
• Reads a great deal on his own;  usually prefers adult level books;  does not avoid difficult materials
• Reasons things out for himself/herself

Motivational Characteristics

• Becomes absorbed and truly involved in certain topics or problems
• Is easily bored with routine tasks
• Needs little external motivation to follow through in work that initially excites him/her
• Strives towards perfection; is self critical;  is not easily satisfied with his own speed or products
• Prefers to work independently; requires little direction from teachers
• Is interested in many “adult problems” such as religion, politics, race, etc.
• Stubborn in his/her beliefs

Creativity Characteristics

• Constantly asking questions about anything and everything
• Often offers unusual “way out”, unique, clever responses
• Is uninhibited in expressions of opinion
• Is a high risk taker;  is adventurous and speculative
• Is often concerned with adapting, improving, and modifying institutions, objects, and systems
• Displays a keen sense of humor
• Shows emotional sensitivity
• Is sensitive to beauty
• Is nonconforming;  accepts disorder;  is not interested in details;  is individualistic;  does not fear being different

Leadership Characteristics

• Carries responsibility well
• Is self-confident with children his/her own age as well as adults
• Can express himself/herself well
• Adapts readily to new situations
• Is sociable and prefers not to be alone
• Generally directs the activity in which he/she is involved