As a teacher, you know that not all high-achieving students are gifted, and not all gifted students are high-achieving! This critical distinction is essential for differentiation and ensuring all students—from the “bright” students who work hard to the “gifted” learners who crave complexity—are challenged and engaged.
Based on the work of Janice Szabos, here is a clear comparison chart to help you identify the unique traits of each learner in your classroom.
| Area of Comparison | The Bright Child | The Gifted Learner |
| Thinking | Knows the answer. | Asks the questions. |
| Learning Speed | Needs 6 to 8 repetitions for mastery. | Needs 1 to 2 repetitions for mastery. |
| Content | Absorbs information. | Manipulates information (draws inferences). |
| Idea Type | Has good ideas. | Has wild, silly, creative ideas. |
| Work Ethic | Works hard to achieve. | Plays around, yet tests well (already knows). |
| School View | Enjoys school. | Enjoys learning (may dislike school if it lacks complexity). |
| Projects | Completes assignments. | Initiates projects. |
| Assessment | Pleased with own learning. | Can be highly self-critical. |
The chart below that I found via Soaring with Snyder’s website is also super helpful to see a clear comparison.
Source: A side-by-side comparison chart showing the differences between a bright child and a gifted learner.
If you’re looking for a good introduction to the unique characteristics of gifted students, this video explains the distinctions between gifted and bright children, and shares little-known facts about giftedness. Gifted Vs. Bright: Gifted Resources Discusses the Different Characteristics of Gifted Children – YouTube
The most critical need for a gifted learner is content that thrives on complexity. They need problem-solving challenges that require them to manipulate information, not just memorize it.
That’s the entire philosophy behind my Math Mysteries. They are designed as a high-stakes, multi-level case that taps into that intense curiosity and need for complex problem-solving.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-implement resource that meets the needs of your gifted and talented students, this is the perfect solution.
<CLICK HERE TO SEE ACTIVITIES DESIGNED FOR COMPLEX THINKING!>
