What to Do With Gifted Students?

When I have that kind of student in a class, I give what I call "seat credit." They are the students who don't need to do any homework in order to understand the concept and get A's on all the exams. They participate in class discussions in a manner far above that of their classmates. They are engaged in the class on a deeper level.

We need to ask ourselves, as educators, what we are looking for as outcomes?

If, as educators, we value independent, out-of-the-box thinking, the kind that will encourage a student to be an innovator, then perhaps we need to revise the system. The system currently in use in our culture is one that rewards students for all the work they turn in (even if it is not their own -- cheating is rampant, see cheathouse.com), not the depth of their understanding nor the creativity of their mind. This may lead to creating good employees, but not great thinkers. Remember, Einstein didn't do well in school. Given the system, and we touched on only one aspect of the problem, it is not surprising that the U.S. ranks 24th out of 29 developed nations in math education.

-- Karen Carter

San Rafael, Calif.

As a former IB teacher for many years, my only question to the mother of the genius son who nevertheless did not make the grade towards college admissions is this: If he is so darn smart, why couldn't he figure out a way to complete more than 65 percent of his assignments? I applaud Virginia Tech and others for recognizing that more than test scores will make a student a good match for university-level work. Grades indeed reflect "persistence and responsibility" as stated, along with maturity, a strong work ethic and dedication -- qualities needed for lifelong success.

Additionally, I would love to hear an accurate description of "busywork." If there was a fair way to dole out assignments based on individual ability rather than group needs, why, that would be fantastic, not to mention less work for the already overtaxed teacher. How about a test measuring ability BEFORE a student is allowed to enter an IB or AP class? Those with higher scores can receive fewer homework assignments. But wait, if anyone simply interested in joining an advanced class is welcome, as per Challenge Index standards, how could that work?

Unless a student, gifted or not, has some highly compelling personal circumstances (illness, etc.), signing up for any course means it is his responsibility to complete his assignments, period. I doubt you'll print this letter, but I do hope you'll at least consider another point of view.

-- Prastavna Sinha Mehta Fairfax

I am not often compelled to write a letter like this, however I read Mrs. Klimavicz's letter this evening and felt the need to respond. Every parent thinks their child is exceptional and gifted, no matter their ability. However in this case the parent is correct!

I had the pleasure of teaching Mrs. Klimavicz's son. He was in an eighth grade geometry class that was composed of some of the brightest and most gifted students I have ever taught. Teachers aren't supposed to say one group of kids is exceptional, [but] we do secretly in the teacher's lounge, where others might not hear. This group truly was exceptional. He stood out among them. He has a gift for mathematics that in my 15 years of teaching I have seen in only a handful of students. Not only does he have that gift, but more importantly he has a love of mathematics that kept him engaged and wanting to know more.

He will still contact me to say hi and to actually ask questions about what he is doing in class. So I know that his love of mathematics and his curiosity has stayed with him. I wish him all the best and know that wherever he goes to college he will excel. He is an exceptional young man.