Do Schools Kill Creativity?

The role of education and the restrictions it places on one’s growth from childhood to adulthood is discussed in Sir Ken Robinson’s Ted talk, “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” Through quirky humor and bringing up past life experiences, Robinson constructs an opinion in which he believes education and its main pillars constricts the natural urge to question and be creative while pushing the idea that it is wrong to be wrong. I agree with Robinson as I also believe, after watching his discussion, that throughout childhood into adulthood, we are reminded time and time again that being wrong will generally lead to greater errors. Our educational system is constructed in a way where many revolve around the same subjects: math, grammar and some form of science. Many of these systems seem to discourage children from diving into their own creativity and restricting them by having them only focus on these core curriculum subjects. Often times children are forced to sit for hours and hours on end studying these main subjects while only spending a fraction of that time on arts or physical activity. As Sir Ken Robinson mentioned, there are various types of learners, many school curriculums force a single type of learner to flourish while keeping other students who need physical activity or other forms to learn low on the pecking order. If school curriculums continue to restrict and prevent young minds from being creative or taking risks, we as a society will experience a grey period in which new, unique ideas and concepts will fail to come about as the young minds holding them were never allowed to let them out in the first place. 

Everyone is Different

Watching my classmates video presentations was a surprising experience. Sometimes we do not realize that those sitting next to us have a totally different life, then expected. Everyone expects (mostly) for the person beside them to have a similar story as themselves, weather it is being a freshman in college or the first to attend college; everyone has a different lifestyle. Watching the video presentations of some of my classmates, made me realize how crazy life can be. From Chris’s presentation, I was able to learn that he was a triplet, and that all his siblings are attending college. The fact that I have sat next to Chris and actually worked in class together all semester and did not know that he was a triplet was so surprising. Another surprising presentation was Johan’s, yes I knew prior to watching the video that he was married but not that he has a child. It was inspiring watching Johan, as he demonstrated that he not only is a student, a husband, and employee but also a father. The fact that many classmates, have stories that no one would imagine was crazy, it made the experience of class so much more connecting. If I had to decide on who’s presentation was my favorite, I would have to say Chris ( The other Chris). Why? Because he was able to demonstrate, both school and work. Showing and being an example of a healthy balance. He was able to demonstrate how his first year of college has been, and how working at home has made the process difficult but worth the wild. 

Reflection Essay #3

In the beginning of starting my project, it seemed so difficult. Confused on where to begin on a topic I am so passionate about, was crazy. When it comes to my career I feel as though I focus more on others, then I do on myself. What I love to do is change lives, but little did I realize that the lives I changed, have also changed mine. So having to make a video about myself and what I do was a little uncomfortable and self-centered ( so it felt that way). After a few days into the video making, it seemed to get easier. All I had to do was demonstrate my love and passion for health and fitness. The fact that I was able to see myself do what I do, was an amazing experience. Sometimes, as individuals we don't sit back and acknowledge everything we do, and thats what the video did. From putting my story together, I learned a lot, it was “eye-opening”. Not only from myself but from others around me. I was able to learn more about myself, and that I not only encourage and motivate others,  but i also motivate myself. Making and watching my video, I was able to see what I do from another view. I was able to continue encouraging myself to not stop and work hard. At first, it seemed to be self-centered but towards the end, my video encouraged me and gave my confidence. From others I was able to see, my hard work. My clients feeling changed and more confident, made me enjoy and love what I do even more. Lastly, Watching my classmates videos, was a surprising experience. Sometimes we don't notice but the person sitting next to us can have an outstanding lifestyle. Being able to see how many of my classmates have enjoyed and experienced great things their first year of college was uplifting. 

From Fan to Icon

From the age of nine, Kevin Clash always knew what he wanted with his life; to become a famous puppeteer like those on Sesame Street. As soon as he locked eyes with Jim Hensen’s on screen puppets he began to create his own. Using his father’s jacket, Kevin created his very first puppet, Mondy the monkey. Following his dream, Clash began to take part in puppet shows for children with disabilities, fueled by their smiles, he continued performing until the moment he was discovered by local television directors. 

Despite all the negative criticism Clash received from his fellow classmates, he remained positive and focused towards his goal. With the support of his family he was finally able to meet Kermit, the mastermind behind Jim Hensen’s puppets. Doors continued to opened in Clash’s career; from performing on one of the most viewed children’s tv show, Captain Kangaroo, to his first movie. At the young age of 25, Kevin Clash had experienced more than he could have ever imagined. Jim Hansen invited Clash to work on his feature film, Labyrinth. After working on Labyrinth, Clash was finally able to walk on the set of his childhood show, Sesame Street. 

Opportunities continued to come Clash’s way, as his constant hard work and drive allowed him to support his family in ways he never thought possible. From early mornings spent watching Jim Hensen’s creations to become his most valuable worker, Clash demonstrates how far hard work can take you and its power in making dreams a reality. Elmo, Clash’s greatest character, solidifies his place in the world of puppeteering and till this day, remains on of the most popular childhood icons.

Brain Fart

      Writing essay 2 was both challenging and easy to complete. It sounds contradicting when I say both, but its true. Writing the first draft of my essay, was like having a brain fart. I had read the article but could not grasp what I actually was reading. I tried to begin writing but I felt like nothing was happening. Beginning to stress because I felt as if I had started late, and peer review was a day away. Finally when I completed my paper, I was not satisfied. Feeling as though 4 pages, meant nothing. 

After peer review, I started to rewrite my paper. Using little or nothing of what I had originally. Thats when it happened, I  was able to write. rereading the story and being able to express my thoughts. Thats when it became easy. Reflecting off my thoughts and combining it with the article. Personally, one of the best papers I've written in a while. Hoping my professor feels the same.

The Persistent Writer

        Reading the short story “Transferring 100 Notebooks not 35,000 Words,” by Sonia Nazario,  there were many lessons that can be learned. Personally, what I took from Nazario’s short piece was to never give up. Not in the sense to always believe in yourself, but in the way to not get overwhelmed. 

Here is a lady, who is trying to rewrite and experience an event she has never been through. She does her research and receives overwhelming feedback. Having to write more words then anyone else could imagine, into a form that is understandable for all. She does it, but doesn't stop. Having to edit her book over and over again. In no time did she decide to give up. Instead she adds passion. 

Sometimes, without realizing, we miss passion into our work. Putting in emotion into a work of art, that someone else will judge. She does it, and explains that what she wants. To not be so informative in the historical part of migration but into the emotional aspect. The fact that a young boy, goes through a journey just to see his own mother again. Sonia Nazario is able to capture the picture she wants, because she uses what she has. Adding the passion she had for the work, she is able to complete it. In a way, I feel as though Nazario wants us to do the same. To do the best we can, and not be afraid to edit  multiple times. Nazario never stopped, she edited multiple times to get her final version. She is a true writer.

The Perfect First Draft

I am a perfectionist. Ive always been, and sometimes it sucks but for the most part it has always helped me. I like my life to feel perfect, and to have things done in a perfect manner. Growing up, it was a struggle because I use to write super slow in class to make sure my notes looked perfect and rip out paper if I made one mistake. As my years have gone on, I have learned to use what most people would call a disadvantage to my benefit. I do not think that being a perfectionist is a always a negative thing, in other words I disagree with this piece of writing. Anne Lamott says, “Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people.” Perfectionism is no enemy, it is a friend. Being a perfectionist, everything is perfect. Personally everything needs to be perfect or in its best format, so yes writing papers or first drafts may take longer then intended, but I take my time. Using time management and planning out so I do not have to rush to complete my task, gives me time to make sure it is perfect. Though some may not come out “perfect” in the readers eyes, before I hand it in I make sure that it is my view of perfect to know I did the best I could do. Being a perfectionist, everything may not always be perfect, but knowing that you tried to make it perfect or in your eyes it is perfect it was is important. Writing first drafts, can be a perfect first draft, and yet when we write the final copy, it can be completely different. Every person has a different view on what perfection is. 

Freewriting

I can almost guarantee this won't come out good. The fact that I am not given a topic to write on and can not think of one is so difficult. When it comes to writing I like to have a topic to base off of, or something that will let me juices flow. Having no background to go off from is like trying to ride a bike without the training wheels; no impossible but really difficult. This exercise is difficult then most would think because its the idea of yourself and what you wan to write. I am a perfectionist and want everything to be done well and in its best ability. This article about freewriting is about just write whats on your mind, and if you not have a though then write down the fact that there is no thought. It seems so strange yet interesting. Its feels like blabbing about nothing or nonsense.

This makes me understand that I don't want my writing to be nonsense but actually impactful or beneficial. Something that when someone reads gets motivated by. Like a motivational speaker. Reading this article will help improve my writing skills in a more free thought way, not having to go based off anyone else but myself. Having ideas and using them, exploring more words without boundaries. Having the ability to create meaning through what I think should be said. Its crazy because with this exercise noone would think it can make a difference but it does. As i notice my time start to slow down, I see my words begin to flow out and the thoughts in my mind begin to motion to together. Its like I am finally able to make the bike move, thought I may have fallen a few times I will reach my destination in no time. Times Up. 

Discrimination

              The youtube video, “What Is Linguistic Discrimination?” by Justin Dennis, was both interesting and enlightening. Watching this video has made me realize that there are different forms of discrimination, one being linguistic discrimination. Before watching this video, I only believed there was one discrimination, but there are multiple. One being linguistic discrimination, also known as linguicism or languagism, which is the mistreatment of an individual based solely on their use of language. 

Not many people realize it, but judging someone for the way they sound or talk is wrong. Just because someone may have an accent different then what we are use too does not make them lower then us. I agree with the video, in the sense that it is very true, individuals no matter their background or form of talking should not be judged. I am an American citizen who is also hispanic, and thought I do not have a hispanic accent, in Ecuador they can not judge me for sounding “white” or “american” I am still hispanic. I am still educated and know both English and Spanish and does not make me incapable of succeeding. 

Perviously, we watched a TED talk video, where  a black female expressed through spoken word about discrimination. Just like Justin Dennis, the female made very clear that because of different languages and accents many people are judged but does not make them uneducated. I agree greatly with this,  if we were to go to the doctor who happens to be Chinese (very strong accent) they will not be judged for being uneducated because they are a Doctor, yet any other individual would be judged. Why? 

Nervous Student (Email)

Hi Professor Alvarez,

How are you doing? I hope everything is going well. This is Julisa Vargas from your ENG 110-20 College Writing Course, and I am very concerned. I was told earlier today that I am not doing so well in your class, and was wondering if you could possibly help me. I am not sure exactly where to begin, and I am beginning to get nervous. My tutor mentioned to me that you are wiling to help me, with homework assignments or anything else that I am missing, and I really appreciate it. I am looking to work very hard to get a C+ or better in your class and I understand with the end of the semester arriving I will have to stay very focused. I know we have two more exams coming up and will be studying extremely hard with my tutor, in hopes of improving my grade. I did not realize that I was doing so poorly in your class, and will try to make great improvements. 

 I was wondering if there is any possibility we can meet later this week to talk more on this topic? I understand this is short notice but I am available after 3:30 pm tomorrow, if you are available to meet that would be awesome. If not, any time you are able too would be appreciated. Also, I was also wondering, if there is any possibility I can do some extra credit work to improve my grade? I hope you are enjoying your day. 

Thank You, 

Julisa Vargas 

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Group Work: (Julisa & Chris)

Pls. take chicken out to thaw and feed T. Remember Dr. Wong at 4.

a.) Boss                                        

b.) Secretary 

c.) Younger Sibling 

d.) Significant Other 

e.) Roomate

Shitty First Draft

​Like any other college student, or student in general, I’ve written many papers varying from topic to topic. These papers usually took on the same path; after hours of writing and erasing and repeating the process once more, I finally had a first draft. When it came to my first drafts I always found it hard to solidify my ideas and would crumble under the pressure of trying to create the perfect first draft. When I was writing I looked at my first draft as what I wanted my final paper to be, my final paper had to be perfect, so my first had to be just the same. Anne Lamott brings up the idea of accepting a less than adequate first draft. She brings up how many famous authors fail to strike gold with their first lines. Lamott brings up a good point where she mentions that not all great writers wake up feeling enthusiastic about the piece they’re about to right. Many professional writers create their first draft keeping their errors and mistakes while using those same errors and mistakes as fodder for their final pieces. I feel the advice given in this article should be greatly considered as many ideas are often lost as we as novice writers attempt to create perfection with our first pages. Through Lamott I learned that it’s not only to write a horrendous piece to start off with, but it should be encouraged and used as a method to lay out clearer ideas.

Judging by The Title

Writing, wether it is an essay or a short story, can be challenging without proper time management. Luckily, when it comes to assignments and responsibilities I try to manage my time very precisely. I have always been a very organized individual, from color coordinating my books to color coordinating my closet, keeping my self organized has always helped me manage my time. Being organized and planning out my work has alway helped with school assignments. So as I wrote about my love for writing I was able to not stress and get it all completed in a easy manner. 

Whenever it comes to school assignments, I like to have it all completed atleast a day before it is actually due. When writing I rather sit and complete the paper all at once, with a few breaks in between, but for some assignments drafts and outlines are a great help. It is not that I do not like to take my time in writing, but the fact that I do not want to lose my train of thought. Rereading my papers and stories, I always want to add and remove different things. There always things that I am going to want to change within my paper to improve it and make it perfect. In the case of my autobiography about writing, I would want to add more feeling into it. Where the reader will feel the passion I have for writing. Writing  is a way to free the mind, and build character through words. I would also change the title of my paper, to help the reader imagine my paper before reading it. When it comes to a title, it is what helps attract people to your story. Some people judge a book by its cover, others judge the title.  

Superman And Me

In the essay, "Superman and Me" Alexie talks about reading a comic book before he even knew how to actually read. The comic was about Superman, he doesn't remember the plot nor the villain that was being fought. In one of the comic book panels Superman breaks through a door, that shatters into pieces. Being unable to read words,  Alexie assumed from the photos below that it said "Superman is breaking down a door." Imagining the words through the pictures, is how Alexie learned how to read at very young age. From that moment on Alexie was already more advanced then most kids his age, especially India kids. 

It is important to remember the detail of Superman towards the end of the essay because in a way Alexie can relate to Superman. Superman breaking down the brown door is symbolic for Alexie because it is like Superman broke down the "wall" for him. Alexie explains that his love for books was something he developed from his father, but also part of the purpose to save his life. Not save in the sense that he was dying but in the sense that he was being inclosed into a Indian boy stereotype. In his culture, Indian boys are suspected to not know anything compared to a non-indian. So rather then being quiet in class, Alexie interacted and read many books. Later in life he became a writer, not common for Indians in his time and put in effort to visit schools and talk about writing and encouraging students to do the same. Alexie wants to be what Superman was to him for other young kids, who are like him. He wants to save lives, like the Superman comic book saved his.