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
