The following are common characteristics
of gifted children, although not all will necessarily apply to every gifted child: • Has an extensive and detailed memory, particularly in a specific area
of interest • Has advanced vocabulary for his or her age; uses precocious language • Has communication skills advanced for his or her age and is able to express ideas and feelings • Asks intelligent and complex questions • Is able to identify the important characteristics
of new concepts and
problems • Learns information quickly • Uses logic in arriving at common sense answers • Has a broad base
of knowledge; a
large quantity
of information • Understands abstract ideas and complex concepts • Uses analogical thinking,
problem solving, or reasoning • Observes relationships and sees connections • Finds and solves difficult and unusual
problems • Understands principles, forms generalizations, and uses them in new situations • Wants to learn and is curious • Works conscientiously and has a high degree
of concentration in areas
of interest • Understands and uses various symbol systems • Is
reflective about learning • Is enraptured by a specific subject • Has reading comprehension skills advanced for his or her age • Has advanced writing abilities for his or her age • Has strong artistic or musical abilities • Concentrates intensely for long periods
of time, particularly in a specific area
of interest • Is more aware, stimulated, and affected by surroundings • Experiences extreme positive or negative feelings • Experiences a strong physical reaction to emotion • Has a strong affective memory, re-living or re-feeling things long after the triggering event