Characteristics of Giftedness
The following are characteristics that are common among gifted individuals. Not all gifted children display all of these characteristics at all times.
Motivation
- Is unusually attentive to details in the environment
- Keeps at an issue until it makes sense
- Displays unexpected depth of knowledge in one or more areas
- Has accelerated task commitment and energy while learning
- Wants to do things on own; independent
Inquiry
- Asks penetrating questions
- Is curious; asks how, why, and what if
- Asks questions about words (in print and/or oral language)
Insights
- Expresses similarities and differences between unrelated objects
- Uses time concepts
- Expresses relationships between past and present experiences
- Sees another’s point of view
- Spontaneously takes action to help someone in need
- Shows non-verbal awareness of other’s needs
- Has high expectations of self and others
Reasoning
- Analyzes classroom tasks
- Sees cause and effect relationships
- Organizes collections of things
Imagination/Creativity
- Makes up or expands songs, stories and riddles about learning experiences
- Creates interesting shapes or patterns
Humor
- Says or does something indicating a finely developed sense of humor
- Catches an adult’s subtle humor
- Understands and uses puns and riddles
- “Plays” with language