District 70

Characteristics of Gifted LearnersCharacteristics of Gifted Learners

Extensive research has been published defining components of quality gifted education programming and characteristics of gifted learners. While all learners present with unique needs and learning styles, we do know that gifted learners, 5-7% of the student population, typcially:
-feel socially successful and happy with their friendships
-do not report lower social self-perceptions overall than other adolescents
-are more open to new experiences and learning
-prefer looking for patterns and possibilities rather than -concentrating on facts and details; they like to play with ideas and are more intuitive
-are not all alike in their learning styles, nor do they have the same learning needs
-may learn to read early, with better comprehension of the nuances of language
-frequently learn basic skills better, more quickly, and with less practice
-often pick up and interpret nonverbal cues and can draw inferences that other children do not see clearly
-seek the "hows" and "whys"
-may have interests that are eclectic and intensely focused
-may often have high levels of energy, which can lead to a misdiagnosis of hyperactivity
-may prefer the company of older children and adults to that of their same-age classmates
-are highly inquisitive.
-often exhibit an intrinsic motivation and are often very persistent

Gifted Education in District 70

A three year program audit including an evaluation by Dr. Sally Walker, a recognized expert in gifted education, extensive research reviews, and collaboration between gifted teachers and administration has resulted in many changed to gifted education services in Libertyville District 70. A refined identification process is consistently identifying the 5% of our student population who are truly academically talented and cognitively gifted. The creation of a review committee insures that students will not be overlooked for possible participation based upon a single year's test performance. Individualized testing, following our screening procedures, helps us gather detailed information about our learners. Based upon sound research and the decrease in numbers that resulted from an improved identification process, gifted students in 4th and 5th grades participate in gifted education at Adler Park School. This allows them the opportunity to receive math and reading instruction with gifted peers, while also experiencing integration with others during team teaching of science and social studies. Gifted education was expanded to include 3rd grade with the creation of a Gifted Resource teacher position to work with identified students individually.