Parents and teachers may suspect early science talent in children, which frequently manifests itself through insatiable curiosity and an intense interest in one or more areas of science. However, sometimes they struggle with identification and then knowing what to do to nurture these talents. The author of this practical article provides a…

The nature of giftedness, talent, and creativity is examined, and implications for teaching are given. Problems with using IQ as a precondition for identification are considered, especially for creative individuals. Typical obstacles to creative thinking are outlined, including classroom atmospheres that do not welcome new ideas. The importance of…

Discusses the need for gifted and talented students to develop annual talent growth plans with the assistance of their counselors or program coordinators. Lists potential talent development services (such as mentorships, Odyssey of the Mind, and grade advancement), and describes the components of a sample growth plan used with approximately 600…

Discusses the connection between creativity in the arts and competitions, and shares a sampling of competitions that might entice secondary students to maximize their creative abilities. The benefits of competitions are described; they include the opportunity for students to enhance self-directed learning skills and their sense of autonomy. (CR)

This book provides information on 80 international, national, and regional academic competitions available to gifted students. An overview of characteristics of good competitions and ways to evaluate them is given. Competition and its impact on gifted and talented students are evaluated, and criteria are given for selecting and implementing…

This book describes giftedness in each of the domains and guides teachers in the identification and nurturing of special abilities in all children. Chapter 1, "Who Are the Gifted?," discusses concern for gifted children and inconsistencies in current and previous attempts to serve this population. Chapter 2, "Introducing the Cline…

This article discusses the need for teachers and parents to work together to help gifted students. It lists 10 principles for the identification and recognition of giftedness that parents and teachers should adhere to, including learning as much as possible about characteristics and needs of gifted children. (Contains references.) (CR)

The right kind of learning and environment at home and in school can often turn an "average" student into a "gifted" one. Parents can help ignite the motivating spark by encouraging the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and leadership ability. Educational strategies parents can use are suggested. (PP)

Discusses the importance of competitions for gifted students and offers practical tips and techniques for utilizing competitions, not only to enhance talents, but also to nurture positive relationships between the school and community. Gives an example of a community's involvement in supporting competitions. (Author/CR)

This article describes the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) and examines the relationship between gifted programs and total school improvement using the SEM. Goals of SEM include a school SEM specialist, a strong research base, a broadened conception of human potential, and educational experiences grounded in a high-end theory of learning.…

This article questions whether current practices in gifted education are excluding groups of natural learners who don't fit our vision of giftedness or standards of high ability. It urges gifted education programs to reach out to different learners who live on the outskirts of the circle of academically gifted learners. (CR)

The nature of visual giftedness is often misunderstood. Although skillful, accurate rendering and effective use of art media are commonly observed characteristics, talent also can draw upon intellect, creativity, and personal attitudes and traits which, if neglected, can keep a child from realizing artistic potential. This guide provides basic…

This article provides a consistent framework through which educators may better identify and serve gifted and talented students by revisiting the dynamics of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) in relation to student achievement. Delivery and structural and organizational components of SEM are discussed, along with research supporting the model.…

This article discusses how regular classroom teachers can use high level curriculum as a catalyst for identifying and nurturing gifted students. It describes the characteristics of a differentiated classroom, how differentiation might look for advanced learners, why differentiated instruction is needed for advanced learners, and how parents can…

Describes 10 warning signals of potential or actual problems within a school's talented and gifted education program. Eight references are appended. (IW)