Gifted Rating Scales

Measure of Multidimensional Giftedness

The Gifted Rating Scales (GRS), authored by Steven I. Pfeiffer, was published in 2003. The following principles guided the development of the GRS: requires minimal training to administer, score, and interpret; reliable and valid; standardization sample matches the latest U.S. Census in race/ethnicity, parent education level, and regional representation; based on a multi-abilities conceptualization of giftedness; designed to complement an IQ test and other procedures (e.g., auditions, portfolio samples, nonverbal tests); and standardization co-linked to the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Fourth Edition and Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence–Third Edition.

The GRS includes a Preschool/Kindergarten Form (GRS-P) for ages 4:0 to 6:11 and a School Form (GRS-S) for ages 6:0 to 13:11. The GRS-P consists of five scales with 12 items each; the GRS-S consists of six scales with 12 items each. The items of the GRS-P represent skills and behaviors developmentally appropriate for younger children, and the GRS-S items reflect more developmentally advanced skills. The GRS-S includes a sixth scale, leadership. Both forms yield raw score [Page 391]totals, which are converted to age-based T-scores and associated cumulative percentages.

The GRS is based on a multidimensional model of giftedness that incorporates the Edward Zigler and Kurt Heller's Munich model of giftedness and talent and the typology in the U.S. Department of Education Report, National Excellence: A Case for Developing America's Talent. Following is a brief description of each of the scales:

Intellectual Ability. This scale measures the student's verbal and nonverbal mental skills and intellectual competence. Items rate abstract reasoning, problem solving, mental speed, and memory.

Academic Ability. This scale measures the student's skill in dealing with factual and school-related material.

Creativity. This scale measures the student's ability to think, act, and produce unique, original, or innovative thoughts or products.

Artistic Talent. This scale measures the student's potential for, or evidence of ability in drama, music, dance, drawing, singing, playing a musical instrument, and acting.

Leadership Ability. This scale measures the student's ability to motivate others toward a common or shared goal. Items rate conflict resolution skills, initiative in groups, and understanding of interpersonal communication.

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