Brain Candy Worksheet: 1) On the first page, Gladwell mentions three elements of prosperity

Brain Candy Worksheet:

1) On the first page, Gladwell mentions three elements of prosperity. What are they? Explain how each of these three elements might help someone do better on an I.Q. test.

2. On the second page, Gladwell talks about “social dexterity rather than the physical kind.” What does he mean by this? (Use a dictionary, if needed.) Of the two, which do you think you have more of? Which do you believe will be more important in your adult life? Why?

3. It’s been said that the secret to success is the ability to delay gratification, a theme echoed in this piece by Gladwell. Using your own words, explain this idea. Then, give two real-world examples either from your life or your studies that support this idea.

4. How are video games better than typical teen multitasking?

5. In the last excerpt from the book, Johnson provides a satirical argument about why video games are better than books. Give three arguments from that section that you find particularly effective.

6. Gladwell explains that there two are kinds of “smart.” Explain this.

7. In what way, would Gladwell argue, is the Gettysburg Address “smarter” than the President’s most-recent State of the Union address?

8. Using your own words, explain the classic chicken and- egg question surrounding successful high school students and homework. Do you think a person can become good at something that he or she doesn’t particularly enjoy? Can he become great? Give two real-world examples from your life or your studies as support.