Author: Jim Delisle

Picture of Jim Delisle

Jim Delisle

Jim Delisle has worked with gifted children, and those who work on their behalf, for almost 40 years. He is the author of 19 books, including the recently-released, Dumbing Down America (Prufrock Press)
Education & Homeschooling
Jim Delisle

Sorry…Differentiation Still Doesn’t Work

Jim Delisle argues that classroom differentiation fails gifted students because mixed-ability classes prevent appropriate challenge. He contends grouping students by readiness enables more effective differentiation, addresses equity concerns, and improves learning opportunities for all, advocating narrower ability ranges within classrooms to enhance teaching and student outcomes.

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100 Words of Wisdom
Jim Delisle

100 Words of Wisdom: Jim Delisle

A gifted student once said that being forced into opportunities can be worse than being denied them. Gifted children often pursue achievement yet also need quiet and unstructured time. Balancing drive with solitude supports personal growth; giftedness is an identity, not merely actions or accomplishments.

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Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma
Jim Delisle

Risk-Taking and Risk-Making: Understanding when less than perfection is more than acceptable

Distinguishes risk-taking (externally pushed) from risk-making (self-initiated) and offers practical advice for parents of gifted children: explain the difference, model taking risks, use near peers, allow short-term trials with an easy exit, and encourage learning rather than perfection to broaden children’s comfort with new challenges.

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Education & Homeschooling
Jim Delisle

Do We Know if Gifted Children are Being Served Appropriately?

Examines whether schools adequately serve gifted children, arguing gifted education should be integrated into classrooms rather than isolated in pull-out programs. Offers questions for principals, teachers and students, critiques resource rooms, and advocates properly funded inclusive approaches that address intellectual, social and emotional needs of gifted learners.

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