Gifted Learners: Characteristics

Giftedness is . . . a greater awareness, a greater sensitivity, and a greater ability to understand and transform perceptions into intellectual and emotional experiences. —Annemarie Roeper (2000) 2

Characteristics Not all gifted students will have all characteristics Some students will have some of the characteristics but may not be gifted Both positive and negative manifestations

Characteristics Learns new things quickly Has extensive vocabulary; background knowledge Intuitive Thinks creatively Grasps big-picture concepts, connections Grasps math concepts easily

Complex games, fantasy, nonfiction Characteristics Great sense of humor Variety of friends Complex games, fantasy, nonfiction Perfectionistic Observant Curious

Asynchronous Development Uneven development Uneven cognitive abilities Conflicting messages from others Difficulty with interaction Asynchronous Development

Heightened Multifaceted Sensitivity Giftedness: Two Types of Characteristics Cognitive advanced compre-hension efficient information processing excellent memory Affective heightened sensitivity heightened self-criticism emotional intensity (Mendaglio, 2003)

Developmental Potential: Overexcitabilities Intellectual Emotional Sensual Psychomotor Imaginational

Intellectual Strong desire to know and to understand Curiosity; abundance of questions Desire to learn

Sensual Enriched perceptions of and reactions to sensory experiences May involve one or more senses Sensory experience may be viewed as too intense Seeks sensory outlets for tension

Psychomotor Heightened excitability— neuromuscular system Intense physical activity Rapid speech Less sleep Need for movement Difficulty relaxing Psychomotor

Emotional Deep attachment Intense joy and exuberance Strong empathy and compassion Concern with death, fears, anxieties, depression

Imaginational Rich imagery, visuali-zation, inventive Vivid dreams Fantasy; imaginary playmates Difficulty in separating real from imaginary Imaginational Kristie

Tips Remember they are children first Appreciate their interests Validate their sensitivities Give opportunities for them to be together