This Digest will discuss some of the aspects of differentiated reading instruction for the gifted. In reviewing the professional literature on reading instruction for gifted readers, several salient points about gifted readers emerge. She urges parents to encourage their gifted readers to pursue natural and enjoyable reading activities. When the gifted reader enters school, instruction must go beyond the traditional basal program, and the focus of reading programs for gifted readers should be on critical and creative thinking. Through critical engagement with text, gifted readers are encouraged to view reading as a thinking process, as well as a language process.
Creative reading is the epitome of higher level reading.
Going beyond critical reading, creative reading invites an imaginative interaction with print. New ideas are originated, examined, and applied. Teachers of gifted readers can help readers interact with texts in ways which will promote critical and creative reading. Encouraging wide reading confirms for the gifted reader that reading is for learning and enjoyment. Most schools and teachers have the leeway to choose the instructional method and materials or gifted reading program that best fit their students' needs.