For example, here are lists I have found on the internet. The ones in italics relate
most to Malcolm himself.
Levels of Giftedness According to IQ Measurements
* Bright - 115 and above
* Gifted - 130 and above
* Highly gifted - 145 and above
* Exceptionally gifted -160 and above
* Profoundly gifted - 175 and above
Characteristics of the Gifted
*
Shows superior abilities to reason, generalize or problem solve.
* Shows persistent intellectual curiosity.
* Has a wide range of interests; develops one or more interests to considerable depth.
*
Produces superior written work or has a large vocabulary.
* Reads avidly.
*
Learns quickly and retains what is learned.
*
Grasps mathematical or scientific concepts readily.
* Shows creative ability or imaginative expression in the arts.
* Sustains concentration for lengthy periods on topics or activities of interest.
*
Sets high standards for self.
* Shows initiative, originality, or flexibility in thinking; considers problems from a number of viewpoints.
* Observes keenly and is responsive to new ideas.
* Shows social poise or an ability to communicate with adults in a mature way.
*
Enjoys intellectual challenge; shows an alert and subtle sense of humor.
These characteristics can lead to conflicts in the regular classroom, as the gifted child may...
* Get bored with routine tasks.
* Resist changing away from interesting topics or activities.
*
Be overly critical of self and others, impatient with failure, perfectionistic.
*
Disagree vocally with others, argue with teachers.
*
Make jokes or puns at times adults consider inappropriate.
*
Be so emotionally sensitive and empathetic that adults consider it over-reaction, may get angry, or cry when things go wrong or seem unfair.
* Ignore details, turn in messy work.
*
Reject authority, be non-conforming, stubborn.
* Dominate or withdraw in cooperative learning situations.
* Be highly sensitive to environmental stimuli such as lights or noises.
Like I was saying, some of these points aren't really taken into consideration with him, such as dedication, curiousity, etc. But even though "having feelings" is looked down upon by his brothers (Hal's Christmas Gift?), he explodes with just anger, happiness, or sadness at certain points in his life. He can be very sensitive. It may only be the exaggeration of the sitcom, but it should be accounted for, anyway. His brothers aren't nearly as sensitive if you think about it, as Reese always has his guard up, Dewey is used to being disappointed, and Francis being mature as he is.
The word unfair in that article was a pleasant surprise, also.