Characteristics Checklist for Gifted Children

Often the earliest identification of gifted children takes place by simple observation of the child's behavior by an educational professional, a parent or friend. The following lists were adapted from various sources. Note it is not expected that any gifted child will show all the traits listed in any section.

General intellectual ability 

·         is an avid reader, wide range of interests

·         has avid interest in science or literature

·         provides very alert, rapid answers to questions

·         is secure emotionally

·         is adventuresome

·         tends to dominate peers or situations

·         needs little outside control - applies self discipline

·         is resourceful - solving problems by ingenious methods

·         displays a great curiosity

·         is involved with many exploratory activities

·         has the capacity to use knowledge other than to memorize

·         is a good guesser

·         makes good grades in most subjects

·         learns rapidly, easily and efficiently

·         uses a large number of words easily and accurately

·         asks many questions of a provocative nature

·         has a power of abstraction, conceptualization and synthesis

·         has an interest in cause-effect relations

·         has a liking for structure, order and consistency

·         has a power of concentration

·         is persistent

·         has a high energy level

·         is independent 

Creative thinking and production  

·         acts spontaneously, intuitively

·         tolerates ambiguity and uncertainty

·         retains own ideas in a discussion or collaboration

·         provides multiple solutions to problems

·         is uninhibited in expression, sometimes radical

·         is interested in fantasy, imagination

·         has a keen sense of humor

·         doesn't mind being different

·         doesn't accept rules without input

·         asks provocative questions, challenges authorities

·         is bored with memorization and recitation

·         can show unusual degrees of originality

Leadership 

·         can stimulate, organize, and arouse others

·         recognizes skills and abilities possessed by others

·         interacts with others easily 

·         can articulate clearly the goals of a group

·         can give directions clearly and effectively

·         exercises authority reliably and responsibly

·         can adopt non-leadership roles within a group

·         can establish the mood of a group  

Psychomotor ability 

·         is rhythmic, athletic 

·         is coordinated, balanced and confident in physical activities

·         is inventive in constructing or modifying games

·         demonstrates endurance, stamina and persistence 

Visual and performing arts  

·         responds readily to rhythm, melody and harmony

·         makes up original tunes

·         enjoys dance and dramatic activities with musical elements

·         readily shifts into role of another character

·         uses voice to reflect changes in mood

·         puts depth into drawing, showing planning and good proportion 

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