Monthly archive for February 2015

Change makers, according to Ellen Winner, demonstrate some very specific attributes.

In her work, Gifted Children: Myths and Realities, Ellen identifies five.

• They have a strong belief in self
• They recognize that independence is more important than conformity
• They see no difference between work and play
• They are academic risk takers
• They deal successfully with adversity

Two children are sitting in a corner of the library. The first says, “Do you seriously believe that Shakespeare didn’t plagiarize everyone from Bacon to Marlowe? He should be considered exemplary for his purloining abilities alone.”

“That may be true,” answered the other, “but new research turned up by the British Museum, and interpreted by Professor Bartlett of Oxford, would seem to indicate…”

Individuals who tour Synapse often overhear such remarks and comment “What a pleasure they must be to teach.” And they are a pleasure!