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…

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 paper combines Gardner's multiple intelligences theory with Bloom's conception of talent to provide a foundation for the practice of fostering students' specific talents as a primary goal of gifted education. Individualized personal and skills-based growth plans are seen as a medium for career-oriented education based on students' identified…

This article provides examples of ways to implement an arts program consistent with a model of talent development for diverse groups of students. The process-oriented approach emphasizes role modeling and the necessity for teachers who can function as artists themselves. Tips for class structure, curriculum, and scheduling are also provided. (PB)

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)

This article discusses the validity of using conventional psychometric tests to assess the abilities of disadvantaged pupils, justifies the use of alternative assessment procedures, emphasizes the importance of changing teacher attitudes toward the disadvantaged gifted, and suggests ways to nurture and develop the talents of disadvantaged…

This article examines different manifestations of verbal talent and how teachers can identify and cultivate special verbal abilities in students. The provision of role models relevant to students' interests is stressed and a list of recommended biographies is included, as are literary experiences available to student writers. The relationship of…

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 paper describes how secondary teachers can use the Purdue Three-Stage Model as a framework for instruction that facilitates talent development in both heterogenous and homogenous classrooms. In the first two stages, students master the core content of a discipline and practice thinking creatively and critically about the content. In the third…

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)

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…