Strengths:

• High scores on the WISC in vocabulary, similarities, block design, abstract reasoning and spatial reasoning.
• Above average vocabulary.
• Great knowledge and passion for subjects of interest.
• Can show exceptional skills in mathematical reasoning, geometry.
• Divergent thinkers – involving unusual, original, imaginative and creative thought processes.
• Active imaginations.
• Excellent visual memory.
• Sophisticated sense of humour.

Weaknesses:

• Cannot do simple tasks but can complete more sophisticated activities.
• Spells poorly.
• Has poor handwriting, reversals of letter and poor formation of letters can be common.
• Inconsistencies in reading ability: either good comprehension but poor reading skills, or good reading skills but poor comprehension.
• Has difficulty with computation but demonstrates higher level mathematical reasoning.
• Transposes numerals in mathematics.
• Does well in mathematics, but poorly in language.
• Does well in language but poorly in mathematics.
• Does not do well on timed tests.
• Does not respond well or consistently to auditory instructions/information.
• Poor organisational skills, failure to complete or hand in assignments.
• Difficulty with rote memorisation, sequential learning.
• Poor ball handling skills.
• Difficulty copying from the blackboard.
• Generalises minor academic failure to feelings of overall inadequacy.
• Affective behaviours can include: low self-esteem, unrealistic expectations, reluctant to take risks.
• Disruptive in class.
• Frequently off task.
• Frustrates easily.
• Acts out without thinking about the consequences.
• Has poor social skills with peers and adults.
• A “zig zag” or “scatter” WISC pattern, showing weaknesses in the sub tests such as coding, digit span, arithmetic, and freedom from distractibility.