A note before we begin this section: just because a child is a high ability learner doesn’t mean that he or she is going to be the school valedictorian or even the best pupil in a given class.

Because there are many components to being high ability, it is critical that schools identify these learners as soon as possible. How does this process work in Indiana?

Before we explore the academic issues affecting high ability students, consider the following information detailing common myths people (including educators) may have regarding the high ability student population. Keep these in mind as you continue to examine the provided material.

High ability children benefit from differentiated instruction (i.e., adaptations or modifications to the general curriculum), instructional environments, methods, materials, or a specialized curriculum tailored to best suit their educational needs.

One definition of differentiation is: making lessons in the classroom different so that all children’s needs are met; the teacher doesn’t just “teach to the middle” but finds ways to incorporate all levels of ability.

When investigating appropriate educational environments for your high ability child, it is always important to fall back on just what it means for a child to be a high ability learner.