Identifying and Promoting Mathematically Gifted Pupils and Students (12–20 years)

Abstract

Although there have been some attempts to define mathematical giftedness, there is no generally accepted definition in a mathematical way. A formal definition, though, would be extremely difficult to formulate since mathematical giftedness becomes apparent in many different ways and at different stages of age and knowledge. But in order to be better able to discuss mathematical giftedness, this paper presents several subjective ideas on the identification and promotion of what we call mathematical giftedness, taken from more than 30 years as a teacher and a trainer of teachers. Hints and references to situations where gifts or special interests in mathematics are detectable are offered. One aim is to present observations and analyses which may provide a better understanding of mathematical gifts which may be helpful in teaching.