Review of Chris Smith (2005) 'Teaching gifted and talented pupils in the primary school: A practical guide': London: Paul Chapman Publishing. xv + 103 pp. (paperback). ISBN 1-4129-0319-X

Chris Smith has been a teacher and learning support teacher in primary, secondary and tertiary education. She has lectured at the University of Glasgow and is now the Acting Head Teacher Additional Support Needs, West Dunbartonshire Council, Scotland. Smith's research interests in inclusive and gifted education are reflected in her publications and this book is no exception. This is essentially a user-friendly practitioner's text, aimed at primary school educators and providing some strategies for differentiating learning. Smith prefaces the book with the premises that most students with advanced learning needs and behaviours are educated in the regular classroom and that provision for increased student diversity in the primary classroom is difficult. The format of the book makes for an easy read. There are only a few chapters and each begins with a brief bordered overview of the content, then continues with clearly delineated discussions and suggestions for appropriate practices for student diversity in the primary classroom. The practices are supported with research, illustrations and challenging questions and the chapter concludes with reflections. Peppered throughout the text are a few useful, photocopiable pro formas that can support teachers in the process of learning about their students and assessing their needs. The book is sequenced around five key topics: 1. Gifted children in the primary classroom 2. Principles of good practice for all learners 3. Asking better questions 4. The menu approach 5. Managing whole class research projects