The ADK Homeroom

The Stan Lee literary revolution: what makes Marvel different?

Stan Lee is one of the two most underrated literary figures of the 20th century. One key idea turned his characters and his art onto a new path and enabled his success. 

The Modernist Turn in Art addendum

This third part to the Modernist Turn in Art series is a short addendum discussing self-deception and whether or not the Modernist turn and its consequences were deliberate.

The Modernist Turn in Art part 2, or Wherefore Tartaria?

This is a continuation of yesterday's investigation into the Modernist turn in Art. In other words, why does modern art suck (part 2)? Today we get into architecture and music.

What explains the Modernist turn in Art? or, Whence Tartaria?

Scott Alexander has a blog post up titled "Whither Tartaria?" wherein he discusses why we have had the so-called Modernist turn in art. In other words, why does modern art suck? Scott is a super smart guy, but I think he misses on this one. This is a topic that has been of interest to me for years. Here is my explanation.

Top 16 Stories for Storytelling in the Classroom or Anywhere Else

I love to tell stories. These are the best ones that I've found to tell in my 25 years in the classroom, and for each one, I'm mentioning a few tips on how to tell it. Bonus: three stories that you should avoid at almost all cost!

Benford‘s Law, holograms you can touch, and quantum spin ice

This is our weekly news round-up. Two physics news items: haptic holograms and quantum spin ice. Plus insights on Evergrande, the Sussman indictment, and Anders Tegnell taking a victory lap in Sweden.

How should we recalibrate our risk estimates in light of the pandemic?

Before the pandemic, many people held that climate change was by far the most important threat that humanity faced. Has the pandemic given us evidence to change that thinking?

Bonus: an E. Paul Torrance creativity quiz!

What is the hidden curriculum in school, and what are kids learning from it?

Continuing the "what kids are actually learning in school" series. This time we're looking at the hidden curriculum. Politics and values are being modeled and taught; we should examine how and to what end.

Top 5 Dumbest Pop Culture Moments of the Week

I couldn't resist! So much foolishness around the pop culture world this week: MJ vs. Drake (as if!), supermodel Doutzen Kroes, Nicole Ritchie setting her hair on fire blowing out birthday candles, Daniel Craig, and more!

By request: What are your kids learning in English class?

Great episode today, the second in a series: What are your kids learning in class? Today it's English class. Here's one hint: last year, none of my 10th graders knew who Mark Twain was. So what are the kids learning instead? Find out!