Gifted and Talented Tidbits 6
by Lenora Barnes 10/2/15
THIS WEEK
UPCOMING
DID YOU KNOW?
High achievers answer questions in detail.
Gifted learners ponder with depth and multiple perspectives.
Kingore, B. (2004)
MYTHBUSTERS
MYTH # 6 -Gifted Students Are Happy, Popular, And Well Adjusted In School
Many gifted students flourish in their community and school environment. However, some gifted children differ in terms of their emotional and moral intensity, sensitivity to expectations and feelings, perfectionism, and deep concerns about societal problems. Others do not share interests with their classmates, resulting in isolation or being labeled unfavorably as a “nerd.” Because of these difficulties, the school experience is one to be endured rather than celebrated.
- National Association For Gifted Children
They Tell Me I'm Gifted By Dr. Joanne Foster
As a part of our gifted unit, I shared this poem with the students. I think it speaks to how many of our gifted students feel.
They tell me I'm gifted... What does this mean?
Is this something new, or have I always been?
They tell me I'm gifted... I'm not quite sure why.
But everyone thinks my "potential" is high.
They tell me I'm gifted... With increased understanding
I wonder - will this make my life more demanding?
They tell me I'm gifted.... Although I'm not sure
If it's something I'm meant to enjoy or endure.
They tell me I'm gifted.... It must be for real.
But it doesn't explain all the things that I feel.
They tell me I'm gifted.... I wish I were wise
'Cause then I might know what the label implies.
They tell me I'm gifted.... And if this is true
Does this signify I have more "gifts" than you?
They tell me I'm gifted.... Who really knows?
Is it something unseen, or something that shows?
They tell me I'm gifted.... Can this be outgrown?
What's in my future? It's all so unknown.
They tell me I'm gifted.... Yet they don't explain
If it's all of me, or just part of my brain.
They tell me I'm gifted.... Is that a fact?
Do I have to change how I think, feel, and act?
They tell me I'm gifted.... From whose point of view?
Does this mean that I am no longer like you?
They tell me I'm gifted.... Could this be a blessing?
Who knows for sure, and who's only guessing?
They tell me I'm gifted.... What should I do now?
Do I shrug? Do I laugh? Do I cry? Do I bow?
They tell me I'm gifted.... They say I'm unique.
Do I have to show strengths? Can't I ever be weak?
They tell me I'm gifted.... Now I'm in a jam.
Do they think I'm smarter than I really am?
They tell me I'm gifted.... Is it destiny?
Controlled by what's inside or outside of me?
They tell me I'm gifted.... I think that means able.
I hope others know they should look past the label.
They tell me I'm gifted.... What do I need?
Love and support to help me succeed.
They tell me I'm gifted.... And so it must be,
But I know deep inside that I'm still only me....