Psychology:
This week we have examined EQ vs. IQ, that is, emotional quotient as opposed to intelligence quotient. We discovered that IQ accounts for about 20 percent of success and EQ the rest. The students have discussed the impact of child rearing on our ability to relate successfully with others. The development of morality (a conscience) was discussed and debated how best to instill in children. Research findings were also discussed.
There have been many interruptions this week with an ACT Boot Camp and student athletes out for a variety of reasons. Friday’s ’80s Day served as an opportunity to discuss culture and subcultures and how they evolve. We took the opportunity to look at the economic impact of the policies and choices of the decade and the resulting impact on fashion, music, entertainment, America’s celebrity culture, the ensuing fall of communism and the impact of consumer credit spending and rising government deficits on the next two decades.

Intro to Journalism:
The class continued to discuss how to best evolve writing skills that result in voice and impact. We studied how to write reviews. The class made an outline of how they would critique Citizen Kane and wrote a lead for the review. A student round table of lead reading led to a lively discussion of what works and what doesn’t. ‘Hook and bait’ lead writing was practiced and shared. Journalist Rick Bragg’s introduction to his book Somebody Told Me was examined for color, voice and pacing.