I found a great article by Charles Murray, entitled “Aztecs vx. Greeks,” relating to gifted children and the importance of a rigorous course of instruction for them. You can find that article here: http://opinionjournal.com/extra/?id=110009541.  I love teaching my gifted students, but some of them are what could be categorized as “underachieving” gifted students. The article inspired me as a teacher, caused me to think again on the importance of what I’m trying to do as a gifted teacher, and gave me ideas for my own instruction. I read through the article with my students. I may have them write a personal essay on the topic as well. I like the article so much that I think next year I’ll start my classes with it. If you teach gifted students or if you have a gifted child, you should take a look at the article.