Gifted/Exceptional Gifted

Giftedness is exceptional intellectual abilities and potential for achievement that requires specially designed instruction and services beyond those normally provided in the general classroom instruction. 

Types

• Gifted
• Exceptional Gifted

Possible Signs and Characteristics

Some or all of the following behaviors may be exhibited by a gifted student. This is not an exhaustive list. 

• Exhibits high achievement in one or more areas
• Displays advanced reading ability and extensive vocabulary
• Needs less practice than other children when learning new skills
• Shows superior abilities to reason, generalize or problem solve
• Is curious; tends to ask “how” and “why” often
• Displays higher level thinking than chronological peers
• Can draw inferences from both verbal and nonverbal cues
• Tends to be intensely focused on areas of interest
• Has a highly developed sense of humor  Can concentrate for long periods of time  Has an aptitude for logic, spotting inconsistencies quickly
• Has a high energy level
• Has a very active imagination

Teaching Tips/Instructional Strategies 

• Appropriate pacing
• Elimination of excess drill and review
• Curriculum compacting
• Adjusting texts to advanced reading level Complex content/issues
• Whole-to-part conceptual teaching Opportunities for reflection/analysis Problem-Based-Learning
• Method of inquiry
• Advanced organizers for processing

Resources

• West Virginia Association for Gifted and Talented
• National Association for Gifted Children

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