For each characteristic, read the descriptors and mark the box that describes your child. If you mark “usually,” provide an example or examples for how your child demonstrates the characteristic(s).
- Uses figurative language (simile, metaphor, analogy) to explain things.
- Re-words his/her language for younger siblings.
Language Learners:
- Uses advanced vocabulary in home language.
- Good at translating for others.
- Learning 2nd (or 3rd/4th) language quickly.
Sensitivity
- Very concerned about human rights/environmental issues.
- Demonstrates a strong sense of justice.
- Empathetic.
- Sets high expectations for themself and others.
- May struggle with perfectionism.
- May develop friendships with younger children to serve as a mentor.
*- Seeks to understand others’ points of view.
- Discusses/argues from more than one point of view.
- Connects new information to past experiences.
- Makes predictions based on past experiences.
Motivation
- Shows strong desire to learn.
- Extremely curious, asks endless questions, has a strong desire to know more.
- Learns everything they can about areas of interest.
- Pursues issues not typical for kids their age.
- May annoy others with obsession with a topic.
*Analytical Thinking
- Approaches solutions and analyzes information in a logical manner.
- Can break a big picture idea into smaller bites.
- Solves difficult problems.
- Figures out complex, abstract relationships and patterns.
- May appear disorganized but enjoys organizing and planning in unique ways.
- Overanalyzes, preventing them from completing the task.
*Sense of Humor
- Intentionally incorporates humor.
- Demonstrates wit more than being just funny.
- Appreciates adult humor.
- Produces original jokes and puns.
- Knows how to properly use sarcasm to get a point across.
*Accelerated Learning
- Learns new concepts quickly.
- Learned to read and/or do basic math before entering Kindergarten.
- Reading, writing, and/or math skills are well above grade level.
- Exhibits “multipotentiality” (desire to do everything and could be good at all of those things).
Language Learners:
- Learning 2nd (or 3rd/4th) language quickly.
*