Special Populations

Back to G/T Home

Economically Disadvantaged Gifted Students
Department of Education, Western Australia

Characteristics of Economically Disadvantaged Gifted Students

1. Learning performance shows weakness in school knowledge and vocabulary.
2. Interest in, and enjoyment of, a range of reading material may not be evident.
3. Problem solving activities may indicate a preference for a different learning style.
4. Students often prefer visual to auditory learning strategies.
5. Self-motivation for task completion is less evident.
6. Students may demonstrate a special talent instead of a general talent.
7. Outstanding creativity.
8. Curiosity, an ability to generate new ideas or the provision of clever solutions to problems.
9. Observation and outstanding memory.
10. A sense of humor and flexibility in thinking.
11. Ability to think systematically and logically.
12. Leaders among their low socioeconomic peers outside the classroom and school

Strategies

1. Encourage students to value individual differences and accept unique ability.
2. Provide enrichment from as early age as possible.
3. Encourage student's strengths.
4. Develop creativity and leadership.
5. Relate to real needs.
6. Use group work and role models.
7. Emphasize steps in problem solving.