Using assessment data to determine student growth has become an integral part of the accountability movement, and researchers and educators are currently examining how new rules impact the academic assessment of gifted learners. In 2008, the Association for the Gifted's Annual Symposium at the Council for Exceptional Children Convention…

The article provides a rationale for providing gifted students with a global curriculum with such components as: peace education, cross cultural studies, thinking skills, human problems, ethics, emerging concepts, future studies, networking with students from other nations, and active problem solving. (DB)

This paper discusses the pros and cons of full-time, self-contained classes for gifted children; full-time schools and full-time classes; principles of differentiated curriculum; and research results on academic and social issues. The paper concludes that self-contained classes provide a differentiated program that better meets the needs of gifted…

This article offers guidelines for developing a national climate for creativity and invention. It recalls the post-Sputnik climate in the United States and notes evidence of Japan's increasing commitment to creativity. It recommends encouraging students to imagine themselves as inventors, providing early training in inventing skills, and…

A national survey examined state policies for identification of gifted students who are culturally different, economically disadvantaged, disabled, or in some way at risk. Progress was found in the areas of greater public awareness, screening procedures, formal identification processes, and program initiatives. A sidebar describes the Jacob K.…

A rationale for providing foreign language instruction for gifted students is presented, noting the benefits of second language learning at an early age and the need to train future leaders in critical international and intercultural skills. Methods of fostering foreign language mastery are discussed. (JDD)

Technologically mediated distance learning can enable school districts to meet the curricular needs of gifted children when neither student numbers nor the local tax base allows for traditional solutions. The issues of access, effectiveness, and encouragement of schools and teachers to use the technology are discussed, focusing on the situation in…

Flexible pacing through the curriculum is recommended to meet the needs of able learners. Considerations in developing flexible pacing programs are described, including the influence of school policy, the population served, implementation strategies, staff selection and staff development, evaluation methods and results, and the role of support…