GIFTED AND TALENTED (Code 80)

Definition (5% of students are gifted):

Demonstrated or potential abilities to show exceptionally high capability in specific disciplines,
intellect, or creativity. Students who are advanced in one area or in many areas and exceed the
expectations of parents or of the school curriculum in specific areas or development are
described as gifted.
Identifying Characteristics and Observable Behaviours:
Work quickly
Generate explanations, theories, ideas and solutions
Show curiosity and/or strong interests.
Does not work well in normal classrooms
May have accompanying disabilities (Autism Spectrum)
Have great vocabulary, fluency, memory, insight, reasoning, observation skills, problemsolving skills, imagination and motivation
Be highly self-directed and independent
Be unusually perceptive of or sensitive to feelings and expectations of others
Seem intense in expression or feelings of justice and/or empathy
Demonstrate perfectionism and high task commitment
Seem out of synch with age-mates or prefer the company of adults.
Very sensitive, emotionally and even physically
Effective Teaching Resources and Strategies:
Tiered assignments- Teacher prepares a range of distinct assignments, from simple to
complex, focusing on key learning outcomes. Once gifted students complete the
required part, they can move on to more complex activities.
Ability Grouping- students work with their intellectual peers on a regular basis in or
outside the classroom. This could mean having gifted students spend part of the day
with a different grade level for enrichment.
Mentor Programs- gifted students apply their knowledge hands-on, in real-life settings
under the supervision of an adult.
Authentic Problem Solving- Students apply their knowledge and skills to problems that
are significant in their own lives.
Telescoping- Gifted students can do two curricula in one year.
Open Ended Assignments- Students are given options for completing and deciding how
far to take their learning.
Let your child follow his or her passion. Some childrens intensity may lead to immersion
in a passion to the exclusion of all else
Participating in their own SMART goal setting helps students who are gifted to practise
higher-order and metacognitive thinking.
Open-ended questions invite critical and creative thinking, and nurture the
development of students capacities to frame their own questions.
Independent projects offer challenge and engagement for students who need academic
enrichment.
Advanced Placement (AP): Students participate in senior high school courses that follow
the prescribed AP program and students who successfully complete examinations in the
program may apply for advanced credit or placement at post-secondary institutions
Resources:
Class Coursepack (Chapter 3- Exceptional Students: Learning and Behaviour Exceptionalities)
http://education.alberta.ca/media/825847/spedcodingcriteria.pdf
https://education.alberta.ca/media/448831/journey.pdf
http://education.alberta.ca/media/1234009/13_ch10%20gifted.pdf