Abstract
Earlier approaches to giftedness and to the education of highly able students emphasised a relatively static concept of giftedness characterised by formal identification procedures, predetermined cut-off points for selection purposes, and pull-out programs for the selected students. This model is based on assumptions that can no longer be countenanced. In its place, a developmental concept of giftedness acknowledges the influence and importance of the environment on a child's performance and stresses the crucial role of the regular classroom teacher in the development of talented behaviour. Implications for the teacher and the school are discussed under the headings of (a) identification, (b) curriculum, (c) classroom management & organisation, (d) teaching strategies & skills and (e) school organisation. A developmental concept is not only theoretically sound but also includes the regular teacher as part of the developmental process itself.
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