Which statement best describes a valid approach to assessment for gifted students?

• A. Use multiple measures including performance, portfolios, and observations
• B. Rely solely on IQ testing
• C. Rely only on teacher opinion
• D. Use standardized tests with no local norms

Answer: (A)

Assessing gifted learners is most effective when it gathers evidence from several sources across different situations. Performance tasks show how students think through complex problems and apply ideas in real contexts. Portfolios document the depth and growth of their work over time, revealing consistent quality, creativity, and transfer of skills. Observations add context about motivation, persistence, curiosity, and how they interact with others in varied environments. Together, these multiple measures provide a richer, fairer picture of a student’s abilities than any single method alone.

Relying only on an IQ score can miss talents that manifest in creativity, leadership, or exceptional achievement in specific domains. Relying only on teacher opinions can introduce bias and overlook hidden strengths documented in work products. Standardized tests without local norms may not reflect the student’s true performance within their particular context. Using a combination of performance, portfolios, and observations helps ensure a more accurate and inclusive identification of giftedness.