“Why should I do homework if it isn’t going to be graded?” It’s tough to give a convincing answer to that question. Typically we point out that homework helps you learn, but that answer goes only so far. We may… Read More ›
Month: January 2008
Pi plate
A solstice present (from my sister Ellen, of course):
The Yiddish Policeman's Union
Just finished listening to the audiobook of The Yiddish Policeman’s Union, by Michael Chabon. This hybrid novel fits squarely in the hardboiled-detective genre — except that it also fits into the alternative-history genre. The premise is that the state of… Read More ›
There's nothing like promoting stereotypes
Overheard in Weston: “She’s even more Asian than we are.” “How could that be? She’s blonde. She doesn’t look the least bit Asian.” “She gets better grades.”
Achilles and Odysseus
A really interesting report on NPR’s All Things Considered the other day dealt with two different but intertwingled issues. One was the psychological reality of fictional characters. Some readers challenge the appropriateness of discussing the sexual orientation of Dumbledore, on… Read More ›
Cheating and imaginary property, Part Two
This is a follow-up to my post of December 26. There are two separate and distinct issues here: Has there been a decline in ethical attitudes and behavior among students in recent years? Are some lines that used to be… Read More ›
New Year's Eve at Brasserie Jo
Some time ago, Barbara and I decided that we would celebrate New Year’s Eve this year by going out to eat at Brasserie Jo. Verdict: definitely OK, but not worth the price. First of all, as the name tells you,… Read More ›
Learning Strategies 