Verbal Ability

The role of verbal ability in any discussion of giftedness is a central topic. Early intelligence tests [Page 919]were seen as heavily loaded in verbal components, suggesting that intelligence was often equated with high verbal ability. In more recent decades, the emphasis has begun to shift to a more balanced view of verbal ability and nonverbal ability. Nevertheless, high verbal ability persists as a basic component of giftedness because of its being a prerequisite for high-level performance in most professions for which gifted learners will prepare themselves and a basic requirement for entry to selective higher-education institutions. This entry describes aspects of verbal ability that relate to giftedness.