Scales for Identifying Gifted Students (SIGS) is the most comprehensive observational instrument available for identifying gifted students ages 5-18. Used as part of a comprehensive process for identifying gifted children, the SIGS offers schools an instrument with extensive statistical and research support. This standardized, norm-referenced instrument is completed by teachers or parents and provides an effective method for identifying gifted children.
The SIGS consists of two rating scales that can be used together or independently (a Home Rating Scale and a School Rating Scale). The SIGS is composed of seven scales:
- General Intellectual Ability,
- Language Arts,
- Mathematics,
- Science,
- Social Studies,
- Creativity, and
- Leadership.
Each contains 12 items that are rated using a Likert-type scale. The items were chosen from a comprehensive body of research concerning the characteristics of gifted students. Nationally normed and standardized based on more than 65,000 completed scales and 250,000 item responses, the new SIGS-2 offers powerful statistical support for using the SIGS-2 as a tool for increased equity in gifted and talented programs. The SIGS offers schools several key benefits. The rating scale:
- is easily completed by teachers and parents,
- identifies ability in seven areas critical to meeting the
- federal definition of gifted and talented,
- features separate teacher and parent forms,
- is free of gender and ethnic group bias,
- has comprehensive and advanced statistical support, and
- is standardized and nationally normed.
To explore the full collection of SIGS-2 print and online resources, please visit: https: //www.routledge.com/go/scales-for-identifying-gifted-students-sigs.
Gail R. Ryser, Ph.D., is a research scientist with the Methodology, Measurement, and Statistical Analysis support area at Texas State University. She has published numerous books, journal articles, and tests in the areas of gifted education, special education, and measurement. She evaluates educational programs and presents at national and regional conferences. She resides in Austin, TX.
Kathleen McConnell is an independent education consultant from Austin, TX. In addition to her work as an author, Kathleen provides staff development and consultation services in the areas of positive behavior intervention, autism spectrum disorders, and gifted/learning disabled. The emphasis in Kathleen's writing and consultation is always on practical strategies for educators.
Laila Y. Sanguras is a former middle school teacher with a Ph.D. in educational research. A recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Teaching award from Baylor University, she is passionate about supporting teachers and students at every level.
Todd Kettler is Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at Baylor University, USA. He is the co-editor of the Journal of Advanced Academics, and his research and teaching focus on gifted education models and learning designs to support exceptional achievement.
