Science talent in children refers to the ability to think logically and provide plausible explanations for phenomena. Scientifically talented children have a large storehouse of information on science concepts and details, shown in an unusual ability to verbalize ideas about science, or science concepts.
They ask many questions, as they are curious to know how things work, which also suggests a willingness to hypothesize and speculate.
They have good observation skills and are able to perceive relationships among the various elements in a situation, using a combination of evidence and creative ideas.
They also have the ability to question other people’s claims, viewpoints and conclusions.
In addition, they enjoy engaging in tasks of problem seeking, finding, and solving in specialized science fields (such as physics, chemistry or biology).
Each school will identify its own high-ability learners in science for the E2K programme. Multiple sources of evidence on the pupils’ aptitude and interest in science should be used to identify these learners.
In addition to school-based tests or exams, the Checklist for Identifying Pupils with High Ability in Science shared by GEB could be used to identify these pupils. This checklist contains 13 characteristics in the dimensions of interest, disposition and cognitive ability in science which teachers can look for in their pupils. The checklist may be completed by science teachers for selected pupils. Teachers may also choose to create a simpler version of this checklist and get their student applicants to complete it.
In addition, schools can also consider conducting interviews to select their high-ability learners.
Further sources of evidence for consideration would be pupils’ participation in science-related activities within or outside of class, and supplementary information such as parent anecdotes.
The various sources of evidence, when considered holistically by a panel of school staff, will enable the due processes to be carried out in identifying high-ability learners in science.
Please contact GEB if you would like to have a copy of the checklist and recommended interivew questions.