Characteristics of being gifted

(Based on research compiled by Dr. J. Renzulli)
Reprinted from the Mensa Gifted Children's Handbook
with the permission of the National Association for Gifted Children

Learning characteristics
Has unusually advanced vocabulary for age or grade level.
Has quick mastery and recall of factual information.
Wants to know what makes things or people tick.
Usually sees more or gets more out of a story, film, etc., than others.
Reads a great deal on his or her own; usually prefers adult-level books; does not avoid difficult materials.
Reasons things out for him- or herself.

Motivational characteristics
Becomes easily absorbed with and truly involved in certain topics or problems.
Is easily bored with routine tasks.
Needs little external motivation to follow through in work that initially excited him or her.
Strives toward perfection; is self-critical; is not easily satisfied with his or her own speed and products.
Prefers to work independently; requires little direction from teachers.
Is interested in many "adult" problems such as religion, politics, sex and race.
Stubborn in his or her beliefs.
Concerned with right and wrong, good and bad.

Creativity characteristics
Constantly asking questions about anything and everything.
Often offers unusual, unique or clever responses.
Is uninhibited in expressions of opinion.
Is a high-risk taker; is adventurous and speculative.
Is often concerned with adapting, improving and modifying institutions, objects and systems.
Displays a keen sense of humor.
Shows emotional sensitivity.
Is sensitive to beauty.
Is nonconforming; accepts disorder; is not interested in details; is individualistic; does not fear being different.
Is unwilling to accept authoritarian pronouncements without critical examination.

Leadership characteristics
Carries responsibility well.
Is self-confident with children his or her own age as well as adults.
Can express him- or herself well.
Adapts readily to new situations.
Is sociable and prefers not to be alone.
Generally directs the activity in which he or she is involved.