Identification of Gifted & Talented Students

Areas of Identification for Advanced Academic Potential or Gifted and Talented Programs and Services.

General Guidance: Defining Gifted & Talented Categories


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Content Area Ability


Mathematics

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Science

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English Language Arts

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Social Studies

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Elective Area Ability


Language Acquisition

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Physical Education

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Comprehensive Arts

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Computer Science & Technology

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Promising Potential Ability

Creativity and Leadership

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Visual-Spatial Ability

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Talent Development

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Equitable Supports

Multilingual Learners

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Children Living in Poverty

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Twice Exceptional Learners

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Common Myths and Misconceptions About Gifted and Talented Children

False. Gifted children need support, nurturing and coaching as all children do, to develop and reach their greatest potential. Additionally, they may require additional affective support, as they are likely to struggle with stress, anxiety, and perfectionism.

False. While test scores and grades are considered in the identification process, giftedness is identified through a careful analysis of multiple measures including student interests, interviews, quality of work, passion projects, portfolios and observed characteristics.

False. Although gifted students benefit from socializing with peers of a similar age, they tend to gravitate to their intellectual peers. They thrive when they socialize with other children who share interests and abilities.

False. Some gifted students have disabilities. These twice exceptional or 2E students are frequently under identified, as the gifts and the disability can mask each other. Tests, portfolios, trained professionals, and other measures should be consulted to make an accurate determination.

False. This myth is rooted in cultural bias. Gifted and talented students are represented by children from every demographic. Race, gender, class, culture, heritage, and language have no bearing on intellectual ability, gifts, and talents.


Contact:

Anthony Vargas
Director, Office of Teaching & Learning Instructional Programs & Services
Office: (410) 767-0182
anthony.vargas@maryland.gov

Kysha Egungbemi
Coordinator, Office of Teaching and Learning Instructional Programs and Services
Office: (410) 767-0322
kysha.egungbemi@maryland.gov