As educators and parents that work with students who are gifted, we may encounter the challenge of motivating underachieving gifted students to reach their full potential. These students, despite their exceptional abilities, may struggle to perform at the level we know they are capable of. This could be happening for a variety of reasons. By implementing specific strategies tailored to their needs, we can help unlock their motivation and foster their growth. 

Check out these approaches to help your student shine:

1. Differentiated Instruction: Observe where your student is achieving and where they are not. What are the conditions where they learn the best and enjoy the learning process? Provide personalized learning experiences that cater to the individual strengths and weaknesses of each student. By adjusting the pace, depth, and complexity of the curriculum (check out the previous article on depth and complexity!), you can engage underachieving gifted students at their appropriate level. Try to move away from “who is at fault” (whether it be lack of motivation, the curriculum, aversion to authority) and work towards creating scenarios where your student can “win”. 
2. Goal Setting: Encourage students to set specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. By defining clear objectives, students can track their progress and stay motivated to achieve success. By allowing students to take part in creating the goals, they will have more buy in! 
3. Enrichment Activities: Offer opportunities for enrichment beyond the regular curriculum. Challenge students with advanced projects, competitions, or research assignments that align with their interests and talents. Check out a few upcoming challenges at the bottom of this post!
4. Mentorship Programs: Find a mentor in the community for your student. Mentors can provide guidance, support, and encouragement. A great mentor can inspire students to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Recognize and celebrate the attempts AND achievements of your student. “This is going to be a tough task, and I’ll be here to help in any ways I can. I am proud of you for taking on this challenge.” Praise their efforts, progress, and accomplishments to boost their confidence and motivation.

Upcoming Contests, Competitions, and Challenges: 

Has your student done a project about George Washington this year? Check out the Mount Vernon’s Student of the Year Contest! 

Any aspiring filmmakers around? Check out the 90 Second Newberry Film Festival! 

This one is for your creative math thinkers and problem solvers! Register as an individual or grab your friends to make a team for the Noetic Learning Math Contest.