ERIC Number: ED321487
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1990
Pages: 5
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Discovering Mathematical Talent. ERIC Digest #E482.
Miller, Richard C.
This digest offers guidance in identifying and nurturing mathematical talent in children. Mathematical talent is defined and the characteristics of mathematically talented students are listed. Some mathematically talented students do not achieve well in school mathematics due to a mismatch between the student and the mathematics program. Ways that various standardized tests--intelligence tests, creativity tests, mathematics achievement tests, mathematics aptitude tests, and out-of-grade-level mathematics aptitude tests--can be used to identify mathematical talent are offered. A systematic process for talent identification is suggested involving first a screening phase and then out-of-grade-level mathematics abilities assessment. Characteristics of appropriate instructional programs for mathematically talented students include the following: they bring mathematically talented students together to work with one another; they stress mathematical reasoning and independent exploratory behavior; they deemphasize repetitious computational drill work and cyclic review; they involve a comprehensive mathematics curriculum appropriate for potential mathematicians; and they provide flexible pacing. Specific ways to provide flexible pacing include continuous progress, compacted courses, advanced-level courses, grade skipping, early entrance, concurrent or dual enrollment, and credit by examination. Includes 15 references. (DB)
Publication Type: ERIC Publications; Guides - Non-Classroom; ERIC Digests in Full Text
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Parents; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC.
Authoring Institution: Council for Exceptional Children, Reston, VA.; ERIC Clearinghouse on Handicapped and Gifted Children, Reston, VA.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A